Chinese Sumac (Tree of Heaven): Invasive, Do Not Plant

Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima): A Least-Wanted Invader

Often called "Chinese sumac," this tree is highly invasive:

• Prolific seeder, forms dense thickets.
• Allelopathic—chemicals suppress other plants.
• Roots damage sewers/foundations.
• Hard to eradicate once established.

Finding It on Long Island

Caumsett State Park recently had removal programs—likely source nearby. But do not propagate or plant it.

Native Alternatives

For similar look: staghorn sumac (Rhus typhina), smooth sumac (Rhus glabra), or tree lilac (Syringa reticulata).