Invasive tree-of-heaven confirmed spreading in Oregon suburb
iNaturalist: potatophantom
Invasive Species
That fast-growing tree with the funky-smelling leaves popping up along your fence line or in a vacant lot could be tree-of-heaven, and it's the preferred host for the spotted lanternfly, an invasive pest now spreading toward the Pacific Northwest.
Someone spotted and photographed a tree-of-heaven growing on a street in Happy Valley, Oregon, and other naturalists confirmed the identification, making it a verified record. This tree looks harmless but spreads aggressively, crowds out native plants, and releases chemicals into the soil that stunt its neighbors' growth.
Key Findings
Observation reached 'research-grade' status on iNaturalist, meaning the species ID was confirmed by community consensus.
Location: SE Lampert Ct, Happy Valley, Oregon, a residential area southeast of Portland.
Tree-of-heaven is classified as a noxious invasive species in Oregon and much of North America.
chevron_right Technical Summary
A confirmed sighting of tree-of-heaven, an aggressive invasive tree, was logged in a residential Oregon neighborhood, giving local land managers a data point for tracking and controlling its spread.
Abstract Preview
Original paper
tree-of-heaven (Ailanthus altissima) observed in SE Lampert Ct, Happy Valley, OR, US
Research-grade observation of tree-of-heaven in SE Lampert Ct, Happy Valley, OR, US.
open_in_new Read full abstractAbstract copyright held by the original publisher.
Species Mentioned
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Ailanthus altissima, commonly known as tree of heaven or ailanthus tree, is a deciduous tree in the quassia family. It is native to northeast, central China, and Taiwan. Unlike other members of the genus Ailanthus, it is found in temperate climates rather than the tropics.