In 1784, the US imported China's Tree of Heaven as an ornamental shade tree; today, it poisons native plants and fuels the spotted lanternfly invasion

Introduced centuries ago, Tree of Heaven is now a major invasive species. This resilient tree aggressively invades landscapes and suppresses native vegetation. It also serves as a preferred host for the destructive spotted lanternfly insect. The tree's rapid spread and chemical suppression make habitat restoration challenging. Reducing this invasive tree is a key strategy for broader control programs.

In 1784, the US imported China's Tree of Heaven as an ornamental shade tree; today, it poisons native plants and fuels the spotted lanternfly invasion
Introduced centuries ago, Tree of Heaven is now a major invasive species. This resilient tree aggressively invades landscapes and suppresses native vegetation. It also serves as a preferred host for the destructive spotted lanternfly insect. The tree's rapid spread and chemical suppression make habitat restoration challenging. Reducing this invasive tree is a key strategy for broader control programs.