Young Tree of Heaven branches
Close up of leaves
The Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima) is one of the most aggressive invasive tree species in the United States. Originally introduced from Asia, it spreads rapidly and outcompetes native trees and plants.
You may recognize it by:
Fast growth (can reach 80+ feet)
Large compound leaves, typically 1–3 feet long with 10–40 paired leaflets, that smell unpleasant when crushed
Smooth gray bark when young
Rapid sprouting in clusters
Tree of Heaven isn’t just another weed tree—it’s extremely difficult to control and can quickly take over your property.
Spreads aggressively through seeds and underground roots
Resprouts after cutting, often worse than before
Damages foundations, fences, and driveways
Crowds out desirable trees and landscaping
Serves as a host tree for invasive pests like the spotted lanternfly
Even if you cut one down, the root system can send up dozens of new shoots.
Full Removal (Best Option)
At Grubb Tree & Excavation, we offer complete removal of Tree of Heaven—including the root system.
This is the most effective way to:
Stop regrowth
Prevent spreading
Fully reclaim your property
We use professional equipment to remove both the tree and its root network whenever possible.
Stump Grinding (Second-Best Option)
If full root removal isn’t feasible, stump grinding is the next best solution.
However, it’s important to understand:
The tree may still try to resprout from remaining roots
Follow-up maintenance or treatment may be needed
Monitoring the area is key to preventing regrowth
Even after removal, Tree of Heaven often returns—especially in:
Undisturbed areas
Overgrown or unmanaged land
Wood lines and property edges
Wildlife—especially birds—spread the seeds easily, making reinfestation common. Not to mention wind carrying the seeds.
That’s why long-term control often includes:
Keeping areas maintained
Removing new sprouts early
Monitoring problem zones
If you’re dealing with Tree of Heaven, early action is critical. Small infestations are much easier (and cheaper) to control. Waiting allows the roots and the spread of it to get worse. If you suspect Tree of Heaven on your property, we can help! Get a quote today!