Landscape Alternatives
Similar to Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle
These native plants are suitable substitutes for Ailanthus altissima in the landscape.
Black Walnut (Juglans nigra) has compound foliage and produces large, tasty nuts. Black walnut is beneficial for all kinds of wildlife including mammals, birds, butterflies, and moths.
Sumacs (Rhus spp.) are large shrubs that grow quickly and don't mind poor soil. The compound foliage turns blazing red colors in fall, and the pyramidal clusters of flowers and showy red fruit are attractive to bees, butterflies, and birds.
Black Locust (Robinia pseudoacacia) grows quickly, has compound leaves, and showy fragrant clusters of white flowers. It will grow well in poor soil.
Hoptree or Wafer Ash (Ptelea trfoliata) is a small tree with fragrant flowers and showy clusters of winged seed.
White Ash and Blue Ash (Fraxinus americana and F. quadrangulata) have compound foliage, large clusters of winged seeds, and good fall color. White ash cultivar 'Autumn Purple' is seedless. Attracts birds and butterflies.