One tree that can be mistaken for a sumac is the tree-of-heaven (Ailanthus altissima). The tree-of-heaven is an invasive species that can be found in many parts of the United States. It has some similarities to both the black walnut (Juglans nigra) and the staghorn sumac (Rhus typhina), but there are a few key characteristics that can help you distinguish it from these native look-alikes.
First, let’s talk about the tree-of-heaven. It is a fast-growing deciduous tree that can reach heights of up to 80 feet. The bark of the tree is smooth and light gray in color, with raised lenticels that give it a somewhat rough texture. The leaves are compound and can be quite large, typically measuring between 1 and 4 feet long. Each leaf is made up of 11 to 41 leaflets, which are lance-shaped and have serrated edges.
One of the most distinguishing features of the tree-of-heaven is its distinctive odor. When you crush the leaves or bark of the tree, it emits a strong, unpleasant smell that has been described as similar to rotting peanuts or burnt rubber. This smell can be quite overpowering and serves as a good indicator of the presence of a tree-of-heaven.
In terms of fruits, the tree-of-heaven produces clusters of winged seeds that are similar in appearance to those of the sumac. However, the seeds of the tree-of-heaven are larger and have a more elongated shape. They are light brown in color and have a papery texture. The seeds are often dispersed by wind, which contributes to the tree’s ability to spread rapidly and establish itself in new areas.
Now, let’s compare the tree-of-heaven to the black walnut and the staghorn sumac. The black walnut is a native tree that can also grow quite tall, reaching heights of up to 100 feet. Its bark is dark brown to black and deeply furrowed, giving it a rough and rugged appearance. The leaves of the black walnut are compound and typically have 15 to 23 leaflets. Each leaflet is oval-shaped with serrated edges. Unlike the tree-of-heaven, the black walnut does not have a strong odor when the leaves or bark are crushed.
The staghorn sumac is another native tree that can be mistaken for the tree-of-heaven. It is a smaller tree or shrub that typically grows to be around 15 to 25 feet tall. The bark of the staghorn sumac is smooth and grayish-brown, with a slightly fuzzy texture. The leaves are also compound and have serrated edges, but they are typically smaller in size compared to the tree-of-heaven. Each leaflet is lance-shaped and has a pointed tip. The fruits of the staghorn sumac are small, red, and fuzzy, forming dense clusters that resemble the shape of a cone.
The tree-of-heaven can be distinguished from the black walnut and staghorn sumac by its distinctive odor, larger compound leaves, and elongated winged seeds. While both the black walnut and staghorn sumac have compound leaves and similar leaflet shapes, they can be differentiated from the tree-of-heaven by their bark characteristics and fruit appearance. It is important to be able to identify the tree-of-heaven accurately as an invasive species to prevent its spread and manage its populations effectively.
