This invasive Tree of Heaven is everywhere! It is commonly confused with native Walnut and Sumac species including the Eastern Black Walnut and Staghorn and Smooth Sumac. In this video, I compare the leaves, barks and fruit from a Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima), an Eastern Black Walnut (Juglans nigra) and Staghorn Sumac (Rhus typhina), and let you all know what to look for when identifying these plants or telling them apart.

Ailanthus altissima is extremely invasive in the United States, and is native to China. It was originally brought to Philadelphia during the 18th century as a tropical looking street tree but it quickly spread throughout the country. It is also the preferred tree for the Spotted Lanternfly, who has recently made its way to the states as well. Tree of Heaven also harms native plants because it secretes a chemical to inhibit growth of nearby plants.