Tree of Heaven: The Invasive Impostor in Nebraska’s Landscapes
It sounds like something you'd want in your yard—Tree of Heaven. But don’t let the name fool you. This fast-growing, foul-smelling invader is anything but divine.
Originally introduced from China in the 1700s for ornamental purposes, Ailanthus altissima has since become one of the most aggressive invasive trees in the U.S.—and yes, that includes right here in Nebraska.
🌱 What Makes It So Problematic?
The Tree of Heaven grows rapidly—up to 6 feet per year—and spreads through both seeds and aggressive root suckers. That means a single tree in your yard can quickly become a small forest of headaches.
Here’s why it’s bad news:
It outcompetes native trees.
It’s highly tolerant of poor soil and urban conditions, which means it thrives in areas where native trees would struggle—and then steals their space.It smells terrible.
People often describe the odor of its crushed leaves or flowers as rancid peanut butter, burnt rubber, or worse. It’s the kind of stink you don’t forget.It damages infrastructure.
Its strong, spreading roots can push through sidewalks, foundations, and sewer lines.It’s nearly impossible to kill.
Cut it down, and it responds by sending up a dozen more shoots from the roots. Herbicide treatments must be carefully timed and applied to have any long-term success.
🌾 Why It Matters in Nebraska
While Tree of Heaven is more commonly associated with urban areas on the East Coast, it’s been quietly spreading throughout eastern Nebraska, especially in places like Omaha, Lincoln, and along major roadways, rail lines, and disturbed lots.
Its ability to thrive in compacted soil and disturbed ground makes it particularly threatening in urban and suburban environments. That means neighborhoods, parks, and even open green spaces are at risk of being overrun.
Worse, Tree of Heaven is the preferred host plant for the Spotted Lanternfly—a destructive invasive insect that hasn’t hit Nebraska yet, but has been creeping westward. If it arrives, Tree of Heaven will help it thrive.
🪓 How to Identify It
Leaves: Long compound leaves with 10–40 leaflets, each with a small notch at the base.
Bark: Smooth and gray, resembling cantaloupe rind.
Seeds: Winged seeds (samaras) in large clusters.
Smell: Crushed leaves and broken branches emit a foul odor.
💡 What You Can Do
Remove it early. Small saplings are easier to manage than established trees with suckering root systems.
Call in professionals. If you’ve got a mature Tree of Heaven, removal should include chemical treatment to prevent regrowth.
Replace it with a better fit. Consider native alternatives like Bur Oak, Hackberry, or American Linden—all tough, Nebraska-friendly options.
Better Alternatives for Your Landscape
If you want a beautiful, resilient, and non-invasive flowering tree, consider these better choices instead:
🌸 Serviceberry – Gorgeous white flowers in spring, stunning fall color, and berries for wildlife.
🌸 Eastern Redbud – Striking pink-purple blooms and heart-shaped leaves.
🌸 Flowering Dogwood – A classic beauty with white or pink flowers and excellent wildlife benefits.
🌸 Fringetree – Elegant, feathery white flowers with a light, pleasant fragrance.
Thinking About Removing Your TREE OF HEAVEN? We Can Help!
The Tree of Heaven might look harmless (or even a little impressive), but its impact is anything but. If you’ve got one on your property—or you’re not sure what you’re dealing with—we can help. Schedule a free Tree Maintenance Plan assessment and we’ll help you identify, treat, or remove problem trees before they take over.