Curious Commonwealth asked: What’s being done to manage tree of heaven?
Ailanthus altissima — an invasive species commonly known as tree of heaven — will grow just about anywhere it has sun. It’s good at growing in disturbed soil where other plants struggle, taking root before native species have the chance. And its roots leach toxins into the soil that discourage native plants from growing.
The tree is listed as a noxious weed in Virginia law. That means it’s illegal to transport or sell ailanthus in the commonwealth without a compliance agreement with the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services or the federal Department of Agriculture.
In 2024, Patrick Larsen explored tree of heaven for Curious Commonwealth, talking to experts and researchers about promising possibilities for ways to deal with tree of heaven — and what you should do if you find it on your land…