deciduous tree
Tree of Heaven: pruning, storm risk and removal
Ailanthus altissima. Also called Ailanthus, Stinking Sumac.
Plain-English notes for homeowners, plus field notes for tree crews. General guidance only: for one specific tree, have a local insured pro look at it.
Tree of Heaven at a glance
| Height | 40-70 ft |
|---|---|
| Spread | 30-50 ft |
| Growth rate | Fast |
| USDA zones | 4-9 |
| Lifespan | 30-50 years |
| Type | Deciduous |
| Native range | China. It was brought to the U.S. in the late 1700s and now grows wild in most of the lower 48 states, mostly in cities, along roads and on disturbed ground. |
| Roots | Shallow and spreading, with strong root suckering. One tree can send up many new stems from its roots, even far from the trunk. |
| Wood | Light, soft and weak. It is not valued for firewood. |
| Storm risk | highThe wood is weak and brittle, and the tree often has decay and poor branch structure. Limbs and whole trees can fail in wind, ice and heavy rain. |
Typical ranges, not guarantees. Soil, water, space and care change how a tree grows. Storm risk is our general rating for the species, not an inspection.
For homeowners
Caring for a tree of heaven
Best time to prune
Pruning is rarely worth it. Remove dead or hazardous limbs only. In most cases the goal is removal.
Avoid pruning
Do not cut it back without a plan. Cutting or injuring the tree commonly triggers heavy root and stump sprouting.
More on timing: when to prune trees.
- Do not plant it. Several states list it as invasive.
- If you have one, ask your county extension office or a licensed pro about the best way to remove it.
- Do not just chop it and leave it. Cutting often leads to many new sprouts.
- Sap and leaves can irritate skin for some people. Wear gloves and long sleeves.
Safety first
Do not climb a tree or use a chainsaw on storm-loaded or broken wood. If a tree or limb is touching power lines, stay away and call the utility. If someone is in danger, call 911. For anything big, hire a local insured pro: read how to hire a tree service and is my tree dangerous?
Lirevon does not do tree work. Find local pros on Google Maps and read their reviews, then get two or three written quotes.
For tree crews
Field notes: working on tree of heaven
- 1Expect weak wood and hidden decay. Check carefully before climbing or rigging.
- 2Plan for sprouts. Offer stump grinding or follow-up treatment where appropriate and legal.
- 3Check local rules on moving wood. In spotted lanternfly areas, quarantine rules may apply.
- 4Wear gloves and eye protection. Some workers react to the sap and pollen.
Removal notes
Cutting alone usually makes it sprout more. Many programs pair cutting with herbicide applied by a licensed applicator and follow-up checks, and they follow the product label. Seeds spread widely, so removing female trees before seeds ripen helps. In areas with spotted lanternfly, this tree is a favored host, so check your state's official guidance on moving cut wood.
Wood
Light, soft and weak. It is not valued for firewood.
Pricing this job? Try the tree job estimator. Follow your own safety plan and crew training on every job.
Common problems for tree of heaven
Pests and diseases to watch for. Each link explains signs and what to do.
Trees often mistaken for it
Check the leaves, bark and shape before you decide how to prune or treat.
Where tree of heaven grows
Native range: China. It was brought to the U.S. in the late 1700s and now grows wild in most of the lower 48 states, mostly in cities, along roads and on disturbed ground.
Common in these US regions. Tap one to see other trees there.
Free tools for this tree
They run in your browser and nothing is sent anywhere. Results are estimates.
Tree of Heaven: common questions
How do I tell tree of heaven from black walnut or sumac?
Tree of heaven has long compound leaves with a notch or gland near the base of each leaflet, and the leaflet edges are mostly smooth. Walnut leaflets have fine teeth. A local extension office can confirm.
Why does it keep growing back after I cut it?
The tree sprouts strongly from the stump and roots. Cutting alone often makes it worse. Follow-up work is typically needed.
Is tree of heaven related to spotted lanternfly?
Spotted lanternfly commonly feeds on tree of heaven. If you live in an area with this pest, as of 2026, check your state's official map and guidance.
Is tree of heaven poisonous?
The sap and other parts can irritate skin or cause reactions in some people. Wear gloves and wash up after contact. This is not medical advice.
Is it illegal to have a tree of heaven?
Rules vary by state and county. Many places list it as invasive and some restrict sale or planting. Check with your state or county office.
Should I remove a tree of heaven near my house?
Many pros advise it because the wood is weak and the roots can sprout widely. Get two or three written quotes from insured local companies.
More trees in the same regions
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Missed-call text-back, lead follow-up, online booking and review requests, set up for tree companies. See what we set up and pricing.