Tree of heaven, Chinese sumac

Where does Tree of heaven grow?

Found in: Argentina, Asia, Australia, Britain, Canada, Chile, China, Cyprus, Europe, India, Iran, Iraq, Japan, Korea, Mediterranean, Morocco, New Zealand, North America, Pakistan, South America, Taiwan, Tasmania, Turkey, Uruguay, United States

Notes: There are 5-10 Ailanthus species. When plants are put into marshy areas they drain the soil and thereby remove mosquito breeding sites. The plants have extensive root systems and sucker freely, they can be used in soil-stabilization programmes . Since the plant is tolerant of soil pollution it can also be used in land reclamation schemes on old mine tips etc. (From PFAF). It can become invasive.

Status: The leaves are a famine food.

Growing Tree of heaven, Chinese sumac

Cultivation: It is grown from seed or from suckers near the base of the tree. Male and female plants must be grown if seed is required. Seed need 8 weeks cold treatment to enable them to germinate well. Root cuttings can be used.

Edible Uses: The young leaves have been cooked and eaten as an emergency food. They possibly contain some poisons. CAUTION: The flowers can irritate the skin. The plant produces a greenish-brown honey.

Production: A tree that is fast growing but short lived. It can live for 75 years.

Nutrition Info

Tree of heaven, Chinese sumac Photos

References

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