Tree-of-Heaven (Ailanthus altissima)

I can only hope y’all aren’t too superstitious about it but I confess I just cut down the Tree-of-Heaven (Ailanthus altissima). Originally imported as a decorative shade tree it is now a highly invasive weed. One started growing in our basement window well (basement window wells are a bad idea to begin with as they are catch-alls for leaves, trash, water and weeds.) When we were kids we used to pluck off a leaf, strip it of leaflets and use the leaf stem as a sword or whip against our companions. It was only a few years ago I actually learned the name of it. According to Penn State I’ve only just joined the battle to eliminate it. I don’t need a big tree growing in the basement window well and doing damage. Superstitious, God-fearin’ folk are a might touchy about stuff like this. So, if my cutting down the Tree-of-Heaven hurt your sensibilities in any way, I’m sorry – but it’s gotta go.