Care of the tree Ailanthus altissima or Tree of heaven |
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The genus Ailanthus, from the Simaroubaceae family, comprises 10 tree species native to East Asia and North Australia. Some species are: Ailanthus altissima, Ailanthus vilmoriniana, Ailanthus giraldii. Common names: Tree of heaven, Varnish tree. This species is native to China. They are fast growing deciduous trees that reach 20 meters (65.6 feet) high. The leaves appear in pairs forming a nice symmetry and their size is quite large (50 cm/1.64 feet). The flowers are not decorative, they form green buds and have an unpleasant odor. Blooms in summer. The fruits appear in red hanging clusters and the seeds have a helix-shaped wing. They are used in gardens as isolated specimens or in walks forming rows. They resist air pollution very well, making them ideal for cities. Ailanthus altissima can grow in an exposure of full sun, semi-shade and even shade. Good soil is a normal garden substrate. Planting should be done in early spring or late fall. They are very drought resistant plants that only need weekly watering (2 buckets of water). In winter, moderate watering. They tolerate pruning formation (late winter). If the soil is poor, fertilize with a little manure in the fall and mineral fertilizer in the spring. They are not usually attacked by pests and diseases; To avoid verticilosis (fungal attack) it is better to use little organic fertilizer. They can propagate from the suckers of the base when the danger of frost has passed. |
Images of the tree Ailanthus altissima or Tree of heaven |
 Ailanthus altissima  Ailanthus altissima  Ailanthus altissima  Ailanthus altissima |