Ailanthus altissima

Tree of Heaven                                        

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147 S. Front Street Columbia PA

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Len Eiserer

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Tree of Heaven typically is not particu- larly large nor long-lived but this spec- imen is far larger than average. Un- fortunately a vine has been permitted to overtake almost the entire tree (see winter photo) and, if not removed, will no doubt lead to the tree's demise.

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Ailanthus is a much maligned species whose virtues -- which are considera- ble -- are typically ignored by its cri- tics.

 

This amazing species, though a native of China, serves as the central meta- phor for the classic book, "A Tree Grows in Brooklyn."