How to Grow Tree of Heaven Pendulifolium
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Tree of Heaven Pendulifolium
Ailanthus altissima 'Pendulifolium'
treeA weeping cultivar of the Tree of Heaven featuring gracefully drooping, fern-like compound leaves that create an elegant, fountain-like silhouette. This deciduous tree grows rapidly and develops a spreading canopy with cascading branches. Known for its ornamental foliage and tolerance of poor growing conditions, it serves as a distinctive specimen plant in landscapes.
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Example Tree of Heaven Pendulifolium timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Tree of Heaven Pendulifolium
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Tree of Heaven Pendulifolium
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Zones 5-9, hardy down to zone 4b; thrives in warm temperate climates
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Get my Tree of Heaven Pendulifolium timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
6-12 monthsYoung sapling with thin stem and sparse branching; weeping habit begins to develop
Water regularly to establish deep root system; stake if needed for wind protection; thin competing stems to develop main leader
Early Growth
1-2 yearsRapid stem elongation with increasing branch development; characteristic weeping form becomes more apparent
Remove lower branches to raise canopy if desired; prune to shape and remove crossing branches; minimal fertilization needed
Canopy Development
2-4 yearsSpreading crown with long, gracefully drooping branches covered in feathery, fern-like compound leaves
Prune selectively to maintain weeping form and remove dead or crossing branches; monitor for suckering from roots or trunk and remove promptly
Flowering & Fruiting
Late spring through autumnSmall greenish-yellow flowers appear in late spring/early summer in terminal panicles; winged fruits (samaras) develop in autumn
Remove seed clusters before maturity if self-seeding is a concern; thin dense interior branches to improve air circulation
Mature Specimen
Ongoing; 50+ year lifespanFully developed weeping tree with substantial trunk and wide-spreading, cascading canopy; golden-yellow fall color
Prune minimally; remove dead wood, water sprouts, and root suckers; monitor for pest issues; use wound sealant sparingly if pruning large branches
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Prune affected branches; handpick if infestation is light; use spinosad or neem oil in early summer when larvae are young
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Remove egg masses from bark in winter; apply sticky barriers to trunk in spring; contact local extension office for management protocols
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Maintain tree vigor through proper watering and care; prune out infested branches; avoid wounding the trunk
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Prune diseased branches well below visible symptoms; sterilize tools between cuts; no chemical control; maintain tree vigor
Uses
Specimen Landscape Tree
OrnamentalThe elegant weeping form makes it an excellent focal point in gardens, parks, and large landscapes. The cascading branches create visual interest and the fern-like compound leaves provide fine texture year-round. [source]
Shade & Shelter
HouseholdProvides substantial shade for patios and seating areas due to its spreading canopy. The dense foliage creates shelter from wind and offers privacy screening in larger landscapes. [source]
Wildlife Habitat
WildlifeProvides nesting sites and shelter for birds in the dense branching. Seeds (samaras) are consumed by various bird species and small mammals, supporting wildlife communities. [source]
Traditional Uses (Asia)
CulinaryIn traditional Asian cuisine and medicine, various Ailanthus species' leaves, seeds, and bark have been used in herbal preparations, though modern use is limited. The tree itself has ethnobotanical significance in native Asian regions. [source]
Urban & Remediation Planting
HouseholdExtremely tolerant of poor soils, pollution, and harsh urban conditions, making it valuable for sites with contaminated or compacted soil. Can help stabilize soil in difficult landscape situations. [source]
Harvest Tips
Not harvested for food; prune ornamentally in late winter to early spring before growth begins. Remove seed heads in late summer if preventing self-seeding is desired. Remove root suckers and water sprouts as soon as they appear.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The weeping 'Pendulifolium' cultivar was developed to showcase the tree's ability to grow in challenging conditions while providing ornamental beauty; the cascading branches can eventually reach the ground, creating a dramatic fountain effect.
- 🌱 Ailanthus altissima is native to China but has become naturalized across much of North America and Europe, earning the nickname 'tree of heaven' because it grows where other trees cannot—it was famously featured in 'A Tree Grows in Brooklyn' as a symbol of resilience.
- 🌱 The tree exhibits allelopathic properties, releasing compounds through leaves and roots that inhibit the growth of competing plants; this makes it an aggressive colonizer but requires careful placement away from sensitive plantings.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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