PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; highly tolerant of urban pollution, compacted soil, and drought conditions
Watering
Drought-tolerant once established; water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth and avoid waterlogging
Temperature
Hardy to USDA zones 5–8; tolerates extreme cold and summer heat, withstanding temperatures as low as -30°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Large pinnately compound leaves (30–90 cm long) with 10–41 leaflets, each featuring a glandular base that produces a distinct odor when crushed
- Flower: Small, greenish-yellow flowers arranged in dense panicles; male flowers emit a strong, unpleasant pungent scent
- Stem/Bark: Smooth, light gray bark; rapid growth produces weak, brittle wood prone to breakage in strong winds
Care Guide
Watering
Water young trees weekly during dry spells; established trees only need water during prolonged drought
Fertilization
Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once in early spring. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which may accelerate aggressive suckering
Eggshell powder topdressing：Crush dried eggshells into a fine powder and sprinkle around the base of the tree; avoid direct contact with the trunk to prevent mold growthPruning
- Remove suckers regularly to control the tree's aggressive spreading habit, as it readily reproduces via root sprouts
- Trim dead, damaged, or crossing branches in late winter to maintain structural integrity and improve air circulation
- Cut back overgrown limbs to reduce canopy size; wear protective gloves to avoid skin irritation from sap contact
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; ingestion can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and lethargy
Humans: Contains ailanthone and other alkaloids; ingestion causes gastrointestinal distress, and sap may irritate skin and mucous membranes
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Historically used in traditional Chinese medicine; now classified as an invasive species in North America and Europe due to its rapid spread
