The tree of heaven is native to China. It grows extremely quickly and has a broad, umbrella-shaped overhanging crown. It is one of the most dominant neophytes and has been conquering German city centers, which often have very mild winters, for some time now. However, it struggles in cooler locations or in the open countryside. No excessive spread has been observed here yet.

• Origin: China
  
  
• Growth height: up to 25 meters
  
  
• Leaves: alternate, unpaired pinnate; dark green on top, bluish-green underneath; up to 60 cm long
  
  
• Flower: June/July; greenish; long panicles; unpleasant to pungent smell
  
  
• Fruit: winged; ash-like; reddish-orange; remain on the tree until winter
  
  
• Soil/location: full sun, otherwise completely undemanding; very wide range of locations
  
  
• Special features: In the Mainz city area, it is particularly easy to see that the tree of heaven has low demands on its location and is extremely adaptable. Here, it can truly be described as one of the most successful neophytes. It grows almost everywhere, very quickly, is extremely competitive, and displaces many native species.