Tree of Heaven

Like many other states in the Midwest, Ohio is preparing for imminent infestations of Spotted Lanternfly (SLF). This invasive planthopper, first detected in Pennsylvania in 2014, poses a threat to the fruit production and plant growth of valuable specialty crops, most notably grapevines. Though infestations have already been confirmed in several counties throughout Ohio, history tells us that additional infestations will continue to appear and grow. Many eastern states have already been contending with this nuisance for the past few years and possess...

Tree of Heaven has produced its seed pods. Now is a great time to scout and identify its location. And remember, Tree of Heaven is a preferred host of Spotted Lanternfly.

While we have posted BYGL alerts to encourage Ohioans to be on the look-out for signs and symptoms of a spotted lanternfly (SLF) (Lycorma delicatula (White)) infestation in the buckeye state, there is another tool that the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Ohio Department of Agriculture (ODA) are using in locations associated with transportation opportunities the SLF might be utilizing to aid its movement (i.e., road side rest areas, truck stops, or near railways). We realize that although this insect can spread on its own, usually on a limited basis, the greatest threat...

Recently, an Ohioan returned from a road trip to Pennsylvania. In addition to all the memories made, this traveler unintentionally brought back a hitch-hiker – a spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) (SLF). The individual quickly captured and ended the insect’s life before reaching out to his local Extension Educator. The suspect sample was submitted to the Ohio Department of Agriculture (ODA) for confirmation based on the USDA protocol established to confirm non-native pests not currently established, or with limited presence in the case of Asian Longhorned beetle, in the state.

While the spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) (SLF) has not been found in Ohio, the detection of the non-native invasive in Western Pennsylvania has people concerned. Ashley Kulhanek, OSU Extension Agriculture and Natural Resources Educator in Medina County, and Jamie Dahl, Central State University Extension's Forest Outreach Coordinator, have co-authored a FactSheet, Be Alert for Spotted Lanternfly, ANR-83.

Staghorn Sumac is a native to Ohio and a great naturalizer plant. Tree of Heaven is an invasive and extremely aggressive in growth and proliferation. by Ann Chanon and Thomas deHaas

Ailanthus Webworm caterpillars feed exclusively on the non-native, highly invasive, misleadingly named Tree of Heaven. I came across a heavy webworm population this week while lumbering through a thick growth of tree of heaven saplings in search of Spotted Lanternfly.