Tree of Heaven (Αΐλανθος)

Description:

Ailanthus altissima tree/foliage and seeds, spotted by the Anavros riverbanks, Volos Greece. The species is considered a pest , in many countries around the world, but it is a short lived tree and rarely lives more than 50 years. Ailanthus is among the most pollution-tolerant of tree species, including sulfur dioxide, which it absorbs in its leaves. It can withstand cement dust and fumes from coal tar operations, as well as resist ozone exposure relatively well, so it establishes pretty well in the city environment.