Ailanthus Desf. - The Tree of Heaven
Ailanthus Desf., also known as the Tree of Heaven, is a deciduous tree species originally native to China and Northern Vietnam. It has since been introduced to many parts of the world, including North America, Europe, and Africa, where it has become an invasive species due to its rapid growth and tolerance to a wide variety of environmental conditions.
Common names
The tree is commonly known as the Tree of Heaven, Chinese Sumac, Stink Tree, and Tree of the Gods. The name "Stink Tree" is due to the unpleasant odor of its flowers and leaves.
Uses
The Tree of Heaven has been used for various purposes throughout history. Its bark has medicinal properties and has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to treat dysentery and malaria. The wood is lightweight, but strong and has been used for furniture and musical instruments. The leaves can be used as fertilizer. However, due to its invasive nature, the Tree of Heaven is not recommended for planting.
General appearance
The Tree of Heaven can grow up to 80 feet tall and has a slender trunk with a diameter of up to three feet. Its leaves are pinnately compound and can reach up to three feet in length. The leaves emit a strong odor that some people find unpleasant. Its flowers are small and yellow-green and bloom in the early summer. The Tree of Heaven produces winged seeds that are dispersed by the wind.
Light requirements
The Ailanthus Desf. plant prefers full sun to partially shaded locations. It can tolerate shade, but its growth and development will not be as robust as those grown in full sunlight.
Temperature requirements
The Ailanthus Desf. plant can withstand a range of temperatures, but it prefers warm and humid conditions. It grows in USDA hardiness zones 4-8 and can tolerate temperatures as low as -30 degrees Fahrenheit and as high as 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
Soil requirements
The Ailanthus Desf. plant does not have specific soil requirements and can grow in a variety of soil types, including poorly drained soils. However, it thrives in slightly acidic soils with a pH range of 6.0-7.5. It can tolerate some saltiness in the soil and is often found in roadside plantings and other disturbed areas.
Cultivation and Care of Ailanthus Desf.
Ailanthus Desf. or tree of heaven is a fast-growing deciduous tree that is easy to cultivate. Here are some tips for successful cultivation:
Site Requirements
Ailanthus Desf. thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including poor and compacted soils. The tree is resistant to drought and air pollution, making it an excellent choice for urban areas.
Watering Needs
During the first year of growth, Ailanthus Desf. should be watered regularly to establish a strong root system. Once established, the tree can tolerate dry conditions and requires little watering.
Fertilization
Ailanthus Desf. does not require regular fertilization. However, if the tree is growing in poor soil or is showing signs of nutrient deficiencies, it may benefit from a balanced fertilizer applied in the spring.
Pruning
Ailanthus Desf. may require periodic pruning to maintain its shape and remove dead or damaged branches. Pruning should be done in the late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove no more than 25% of the tree's canopy in a single year to avoid stress.
With proper care and maintenance, Ailanthus Desf. can provide years of shade and beauty in your landscape.
Propagation of Ailanthus Desf.
Ailanthus Desf., also known as tree-of-heaven or paradise tree, is a deciduous tree native to China and Taiwan that has been widely introduced to other parts of the world. This plant is relatively easy to propagate through several methods, including seeds, cuttings, and suckers.
Propagation by Seeds
Propagation of Ailanthus Desf. by seeds is relatively easy. It is recommended to collect the ripe seeds in autumn, as they can remain viable for several years. The seeds should be soaked in water for 24 hours before planting to promote germination. After soaking, the seeds should be planted 1-2 cm deep in a well-drained, moist substrate. It is recommended to keep the substrate temperature above 20°C and to water regularly to ensure that the substrate remains moist.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation of Ailanthus Desf. by cuttings is also possible, although it may be more challenging than propagation by seed. Hardwood cuttings taken from the parent plant in winter and early spring may be rooted in a well-aerated rooting medium, such as sand or perlite. The cuttings should be treated with rooting hormone and kept in a humid environment until they have developed roots and are ready to be transplanted.
Propagation by Suckers
Ailanthus Desf. is known to produce suckers, which are shoots arising from the plant's root system. These suckers can be removed and transplanted to produce new plants. Care should be taken when transplanting the suckers to avoid damaging their root systems. It is recommended to plant the suckers in well-drained soil and to water regularly until they become established.
Disease and Pest Management for Ailanthus Desf. (Tree of Heaven)
As an invasive plant species, Ailanthus Desf. ( commonly referred to as the Tree of Heaven), has very few diseases or pests that bother it. However, susceptible infections and pests might harm it under ideal conditions.
Common Diseases that Affect Ailanthus Desf.
The Ailanthus Desf. enters into a few relatively rare diseases. Here are some of the most common diseases that can infect the Tree of Heaven:
- Verticillium wilt: A fungal disease that infects the roots and spreads to the trunk, leading to wilting, yellowing, and eventual death of the tree. There is no known chemical cure for this disease, so it is best to remove the infected plant and keep nearby trees healthy.
- Root Rot: A water-borne fungal infection that can grow in overly saturated soils, leading to root rot and eventual death. To prevent this disease, avoid overwatering and ensure that the soil has excellent drainage.
- Anthracnose: A fungal disease that affects the leaves, causing them to turn brown and fall. Ensure that the plants are not underwatered and are not infected to avoid contamination and stop it from spreading.
Common Pests that Affect Ailanthus Desf.
The Tree of Heaven is incredibly invasive, reproduces quickly, making them mostly pest-free. Here are some of the most common pests that can affect Ailanthus Desf.:
- Spotted Lanternfly: An insect that feeds on sap and weakens plants. These pests can be controlled by applying pesticides, pheromone traps, and removing their egg masses in the winter season.
- Japanese beetle: The Japanese beetle feeds on the leaves and flowers of the plant. Remove them by handpicking and then applying pesticides to prevent further infestation.
- Scale Insects: These insects look like small, immobile bumps on the branches and stems of the plant. They can be removed by gently scrubbing them off with a brush and soapy water or antized with horticultural oil, which suffocates them.
In summary, Ailanthus Desf. is a relatively low-maintenance plant with no severe diseases or pests. However, if any pests or diseases are detected, applying the above-mentioned remedies might help you to address the problem before it becomes a severe concern.
