Tree of Heaven vs Sumac: The Differences

The tree of heaven and sumac might seem similar at a distance, but a closer look reveals key differences. While striking, the tree of heaven has become an invasive menace in many areas. This post will help you identify these trees and understand why one is a far better choice for your landscape.

Identification: Know Your Trees

Here’s how to tell these two trees apart:

• Leaves: Tree of heaven leaves are large and feather-like (think of a giant fern frond). Each leaflet has smooth edges except for a few bumps near the base where it attaches to the main stem. Imagine a sumac leaf with tiny, sharp teeth along the edges of each leaflet – that’s what sets it apart.

• Bark: The tree of heaven has smooth, gray bark with a subtle pattern that some say resembles the skin of a cantaloupe. Sumac bark is rougher, ranging from gray to brown, and has a more textured look.

• Fruits/Clusters: The tree of heaven produces clusters of winged seeds (they look a bit like twisted paper helicopters) that change from green to brown. Sumac, on the other hand, has dense clusters of small, fuzzy red berries.

A Quick Comparison: Tree of Heaven vs Sumac

Feature	Tree of Heaven	Sumac
Growth Rate	Rapid growth, can reach towering heights quickly	Moderate growth rate, gradually expands
Appearance	Large compound leaves, pinnately arranged	Pinnately compound leaves, smaller leaflets
Flowers	Small, greenish-yellow flowers in clusters	Dense clusters of small, greenish flowers
Berries/Fruit	Clusters of winged seeds	Dense clusters of red berries
Wildlife Attraction	Limited, some birds may feed on seeds	Highly attractive to birds and insects
Culinary Use	Not commonly used in culinary applications	Berries used as a spice in various dishes
Medicinal Uses	Traditional use in Chinese medicine	Limited documented medicinal uses
Invasiveness	Highly invasive, can outcompete native species	Can spread aggressively but less invasive
Fragrance	Unpleasant odor from leaves and bark	No significant odor

Tree of Heaven

• Pros: Grows extremely fast for quick shade, tough and adaptable to various conditions.
• Cons: HIGHLY invasive, outcompetes native plants, can damage sidewalks and foundations, has an unpleasant odor.

Sumac

• Pros: Beautiful foliage (especially those fiery fall colors!), attracts birds and pollinators, varieties suitable for different sizes and uses.
• Cons: Some types can spread vigorously, might need occasional pruning to maintain desired shape.

Choosing Wisely:  Sumac is nearly always a better ecological and landscaping choice than the tree of heaven, unless you have a large, isolated property and are committed to rigorous management.

The Invasive Issue: Tree of Heaven’s Impact

The tree of heaven doesn’t just crowd other plants; it actively harms the environment. It spreads uncontrollably, smothering native plants and disrupting whole ecosystems. This tree even produces chemicals that can suppress the growth of other plants around it. If you’re in an area like New York, the tree of heaven is a particularly serious problem.

Responsible Choices: Sumac & Alternatives

• Popular Sumacs:  Staghorn sumac, with its velvety branches and fuzzy red fruit clusters, is a standout. Smooth sumac offers stunning fall color without the fuzzy texture. There are even smaller, shrub-like sumacs perfect for borders.
• Native Alternatives: If you need super-fast growth and shade, consider native trees like the tulip poplar or red maple. These offer similar benefits without the invasive risks of the tree of heaven.

What if I Already Have Tree of Heaven?

Removing an established tree of heaven is difficult; it resprouts aggressively if not done correctly. Here are some important things to keep in mind:

• Containment: Prevent it from spreading further by installing root barriers and removing seedlings.
• Seed Prevention: Remove flower and seed clusters before they mature.
• Professional Advice: For larger trees, consulting an arborist or reputable removal service is often the best course of action.

Conclusion

While both the tree of heaven and sumac can be visually appealing, sumac is often the far more responsible choice. By understanding the differences between these trees, you can help maintain a healthy and diverse landscape.