Confirm tree of heaven? - Ask Extension
I believe there are several tree of heavens in the right of way. Can you confirm this is a tree of heaven and if there is anyone to report this to?
Knowledgebase
Confirm tree of heaven? #815145
Asked October 24, 2022, 10:22 PM EDT
I believe there are several tree of heavens in the right of way. Can you confirm this is a tree of heaven and if there is anyone to report this to?
Montgomery County Maryland
Expert Response
Tree-of-Heaven (Ailanthus altissima) is so widespread that it is not being tracked by any agency as far as we are aware. Our web page for this species includes links to a few other sites that help with making an identification, especially since Sumac and Walnut can look very similar. As it happens, the tree in your photo looks like Black Walnut (Juglans nigra), which is native and found throughout the state, and which supports wildlife. They are very common trees in our woods and clearings as squirrels and other animals enjoying the nuts "plant" them via buried nuts they forget to retrieve. If you haven't seen their characteristic large green-skinned nuts yet, perhaps this tree is too young or hasn't been pollinated well in recent years.
Miri
Miri
Oh yay! Such great news! I hoped with the deep bark this was just a nut-less walnut. Keeping my eyes out for tree of heavens