Poison Sumac? - Ask Extension
This plant continues to grow in my bushes. Is it poison sumac?
It has a smell to it and I can't seem to find anything about a smell when I research i...
Knowledgebase
Poison Sumac? #475899
Asked August 05, 2018, 8:12 AM EDT
This plant continues to grow in my bushes. Is it poison sumac?
It has a smell to it and I can't seem to find anything about a smell when I research it. The pictures were taken after I cut them.
Thanks!
Franklin County Pennsylvania
Expert Response
Hi,
No, that is tree-of-heaven, Ailanthus altissima. Another common name is stinking ash.
It is a very common weedy tree species. I imagine there is a female tree in your neighborhood that is producing a lot of seeds. They are blown in the wind and frequently germinate wherever they land.
Poison sumac is restricted to wetland areas and bogs, and is relatively uncommon.
Best regards,