Re: Tree of Heaven

In a message dated 9/3/00 4:12:19 PM Eastern Daylight Time, 
Mclainakag@aol.com writes:

<< Okay - I think I've missed a post somewhere along the way - What is the 
Tree 
 of Heaven, >>

Ailanthus altissima.  Amongst the many evil deeds of this tree is it's 
ability to sprout and grow in a crack in the sidewalk.    One book that I 
have states Ailanthus is redeemed by it's ability to thrive in very hostile 
environments.  Since I saw it often on city lots and in places where no care 
of the outdoor envirnment was practiced, I associate this tree with neglect 
and urban decay.  

Driving along the north/south leg of the Pensylvania Turnpike you can see  
miles of it.  Just seeing it transforms the roadside to neglected area for me.
There are glands along the newest sprouts that smell very bad.  You will 
remember the tree for a long time if you attempt to break off those sprouts 
(which are often six feet high or more).  That section of the Penn Tpk. once 
had dogwoods and redbuds visible from the road.  I don't think this is a 
forest tree, I think it grabs any open space however poor the soil and make 
the landscape ugly.  Needless to say, it is not popular with me.

Claire Peplowski
E Nassau NYS z4

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