Ailanthus Altissima – Pro

Crushed leaves and stems emit a strong, unpleasant smell often compared to rancid peanut butter or "stink tree".

Female trees produce large clusters of "samaras" (twisted, papery wings) that turn from yellow-green to reddish-pink in late summer and can persist through winter. Ecological & Infrastructure Risks Tree of Heaven | (Ailanthus altissima) - Wisconsin DNR

Ailanthus altissima , commonly known as , is a rapidly growing invasive deciduous tree native to China. Since its introduction to North America in the late 1700s, it has become a major ecological threat due to its extreme adaptability, prolific seed production, and aggressive root system. It is also the preferred host of the invasive Spotted Lanternfly . Key Identification Characteristics

Accurate identification is critical to distinguish it from native look-alikes like sumac or walnut.

Smooth and light gray when young, developing shallow diamond-shaped fissures that resemble the skin of a cantaloupe as it ages.

Large, pinnately compound leaves (1–4 feet long) with 10–41 leaflets. Leaflets have smooth edges except for 1–2 small "teeth" at the base.