Ailanthus altissima aka Tree Of Heaven

Ailanthus altissima, also known as tree of heaven, ailanthus, or varnish tree, is a deciduous tree with smooth, light grey bark, and large panicles of yellow-greenish flowers followed by winged fruit. It is native to northeast and central China, and Taiwan, but has become a noxious weed and vigorous invasive species in many parts of the world, including 30 states across the continental U.S. and Hawaii. The tree grows rapidly and can reach heights of 15 meters in just 25 years. It is capable of cloning itself indefinitely through its suckering ability, and while it rarely lives more than 50 years, some specimens exceed 100 years of age. The invasiveness of the species has been compounded by its harboring of the also destructive and invasive spotted lanternfly. The compound leaves of the Tree of Heaven are the best way to identify it, as they have a glandular, notched base on each leaflet. While other members of the genus Ailanthus are found in tropical climates, A. altissima is found in temperate climates. Both male and female flowers are required to produce fruit.