Unusual or exotic trees – the tree of heaven
by Lewis, 13 December, 2018, 0 comments
The Tree of Heaven or Ailanthus altissima is a species which was introduced to the U.K in 1751 from China. It arrived in the United States somewhat later, circa 1785 to the Philadelphia area. It was brought in as an ornamental or exotic tree. The first introductions were cuttings from male trees. Ailanthus is a dioecious species, i.e. a tree produces either male or female flowers. So these first trees could not spread or colonise. However, seeds were then introduced and grown so that there were both male and female trees, and reproduction was possible.
The tree has been grown in gardens, parks and civic settings for many years and is ‘valued’ for its rapid growth, attractive foliage [and colourful, winged fruits]. It flowers and fruits well in hot summers. Read more...
