tree of heaven

noun

1. an Asiatic tree, Ailanthus altissima, having large oblong leaves and rank-smelling flowers, often planted as a shade tree.

tree of heaven

noun

1. another name for ailanthus

Word History and Origins

Origin of tree of heaven¹

First recorded in 1835–45

Example Sentences

I share Vejar’s loathing for the relentless “tree of heaven,” the deciduous plant that is sometimes called a stinking sumac.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

While they feed on more than 100 different plant species, they have a particular affinity for grapevines and a tree known as the “tree of heaven.”

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The bugs are still so plentiful, the trained eye can spot them clinging to the trunks of tree of heaven while driving on the turnpike.

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Experts are focusing on getting rid of the insect’s favored host, the tree of heaven, by cutting it down and using herbicide to kill it.

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Spotted lanternfly fighters are doing everything from applying pesticides to cutting down trees of heaven, another invasive species that is a favored host of the spotted lanternfly.

Read more on Seattle Times