Ailanto

Five species of handsome, fast-growing, deciduous trees are included in this genus, which is found from E Asia to Australia. Ailanthus is from the Amboinese ai lanto, "tree of the gods". Ailanthus altissima was introduced to Europe in 1751 and is widely planted as a street tree. In France, it is cultivated as a substitute for A. vilmoriniana, on which silk moths are raised for the production of shantung silk. Alianthus altissima contains quassinoids, similar to those found in the related Quassia amara. Research has shown these to have anti-malarial and anti-cancer effects.

Spreading tree with ash-like leaves to 1m (3ft) long in young specimens. Male and female flowers are borne on separate plants; female trees bear large clusters of dark red, winged fruits in autumn.


Common Name:
Ailanto
Other Names:
Tree of Paradise, Chinese sumac
Botanical Name:
Ailanthus altissima syn. A. glandulosa
Genus:
Ailanthus
Family:
Simaroubaceae
Native Location:
China
Cultivation:
Fertile, well-drained soil in sun or partial shade. In spring, cut plants grown as shrubs back hard to encourage production of very large leaves. Tolerates urban pollution. Ailanthus altissima is subject to statutory control as a weed in parts of Australia.
Propagation:
By seed sown in autumn (slow to germinate); by suckers or root cuttings in winter.
Harvest:
Bark is removed in spring and dried for decoctions and tinctures.
Height:
25m (80ft)
Width:
15m (50ft)
Hardiness:
Z4-8
Parts Used:
Bark (chun pi).
Properties:
A nauseatingly bitter, astringent herb that lowers fever, relaxes spasms, and slows the heart rate. Readily causes vomiting.
Medicinal Uses:
Internally for malaria, asthma, palpitations, diarrhea, dysentery, hemorrhoids, heavy menstruation, and tapeworms.
Bibliography:
Encylopedia of Herbs by Deni Brown Copyright ©: 1995, 2001 Dorling Kindersley Limited pp 107-108