http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/604021/tree-of-heaven
(Ailanthus altissima), rapid-growing tree, in the family Simaroubaceae, native to China but widely naturalized elsewhere. It has been planted as a yard and street tree in urban centres, because of its resistance to pollution, freedom from insects and disease, and ability to grow in almost any soil.
Namaste
Martin
Comments
Tree-of-heaven is occurs in many states across the continental U.S. and Hawaii and to date has been reported to be invasive in natural areas in 30 states. Nationally, ailanthus (Tree of Heaven) is recognized to be a serious agricultural pest.
http://www.nps.gov/plants/alien/fact/aial1.htm and
http://www.nature.org/initiatives/invasivespecies/features/art8867....