Vascular Plants of the Gila Wilderness
Presented in Association with the
Western New Mexico University Department
of Natural Sciences
Ailanthus altissima (Miller) Swingle
(Tree of Heaven)
Family: Simaroubaceae
Status: Exotic
Synonyms:
Ailanthus gladulosa Desfontaines
Ailanthus altissima is found in middle elevations growing at the roadside and in nearby swales. It is generally an unwanted interloper. It has pinnately compound leaves which are coarsely dentate. Portions of the tree take on a reddish hue by mid-summer because the samaras become partially red in color. The winter twigs are very thick and light brown, with a light brown pith. There are around 8 or 9 bundle scars in the leaf scars. The buds are hemispheric.
Please click on an image for a larger file.
Ailanthus altissima, photo Russ Kleinman, Silver City, July 23, 2007
Ailanthus altissima, samaras, photo Russ Kleinman, Pinos Altos Range, FR 536 behind Ft. Bayard, Sept. 22, 2008
Ailanthus altissima, closeup of leaf scar with about 9 bundle scars and dome shaped bud, photo Russ Kleinman, Silver City, December 27, 2009
Ailanthus altissima, winter twig, photo Russ Kleinman, Silver City, December 27, 2009
Ailanthus altissima, winter twig with light brown pith, photo Russ Kleinman, Silver City, December 27, 2009
Back to the Index