Description
Ailanthus – Siris
There are about 6 species in this genus of vigorous evergreen deciduous trees and shrubs. They originate in woodland China and from South East Asia to Australia. They bear large alternate pinnate leaves and small greenish yellow flowers borne in large stalked clusters in leaf axis towards tips of the branches. Male flowers are unpleasantly scented and may cause allergic reaction. Both male and female species are needed to produce fruit. In summer female trees develop masses winged papery fruits that are very decorative.
The name Ailanthus is taken form the Moluccana name ‘ailanto’ for Ailanthus moluccana meaning sky tree, which is reputedly inspired the common name ‘tree of heaven’.
Grow in deep fertile well-drained soil in sun or partial shade in warm temperature areas but will survive in moist climates. Able to adapts to urban areas that will also tolerant hard pruning.
Prone Verticillium wilt fungal, stem galls and Cristulariella rust.
Ailanthus triphysa – Ailanthus malabarica – Mattipaul – White Bean – White Siris – This evergreen ranges in the wild from India through South East Asia. In the wild it can grow 100’ feet tall in a slender habit in the crowded forest but in open areas forms an umbrella shaped crown. The light green foliage consisting up to 60 narrows somewhat sickle shaped leaflets with white undersides. In early summer oval fruits are 2” long and ripen to brown.
Zones 9-12
