Tree-of-Heaven Early Detection

Tree-of-heaven (Ailanthus altissima) is a fast-growing, deciduous, noxious invasive tree that can grow in a wide variety of site conditions. Native to China, Tree-of-heaven was introduced to the United States as a desirable ornamental shade tree in the 1780s. This tree species has been successful as it can grow in most places where there is enough soil to support germination and seedling growth.
The Forest Ecosystem Monitoring Cooperative is interested in the early detection of Tree of Heaven as there are currently only a handful of detected occurrences of this species in Vermont. Early detection can help inform invasive plant management efforts to prevent the further spread of Tree-of-heaven within the state. There is a secondary interest in preventing the spread of another invasive species: Spotted Lanternfly. Tree-of-Heaven serves as the preferred host for Spotted Lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula), for mating and egg-laying in the fall. Spotted Lanternfly also feeds on sap from the stems, leaves, and bark of Tree-of-Heaven, and a variety of other trees and vines. Their impact comes from creating wounds in the bark to get at sap, and also from their excrement which is a sugary secretion called "honeydew". The secretions collect on the tree and all vegetation below, promoting the growth of mold. A significant portion of plant-based agriculture in Vermont is tree crops which means that the invasion of Spotted lanternfly in the state would be extremely detrimental to Vermont's agriculture.
Knowing where there is Tree of Heaven present in Vermont allows us to make informed decisions about where to focus potential Spotted Lanternfly monitoring efforts. less ↑