Is there a type of tree that is called both a tree of heaven and a tree of vinegar, or are they two different types of trees? Laypeople don't know the answer because neither appears on the list of native tree species. A detailed view takes us further.
Is the tree of heaven the same as the vinegar tree?
No, the divine tree is not the same as the vinegar tree These are two completely different, immigrated tree species that have now become native to us. However, on the surface, without knowledge of foliage, flowers and fruits, they can be very easily confused.
Why are the vinegar tree and the tree of heaven confused?
The tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima) and the vinegar tree (Rhus typhina) are confusedbecause their leaves look very similar Both are about the same size and are heavily pinnate. Hairy shoots and yellow-green inflorescences are further similarities.
What is the most striking visual difference?
The vinegar tree, also known as deer's butt sumac, dyer's tree and tanner's sumac, hasflask-like, red fruit clustersOn the other hand, the tree of heaven ripenswinged seeds, like us you know them similarly from maple. There are also differences in growth habit, which become more apparent with increasing age.
- Tree of Gods grows up to 30 m high
- belongs to the very fast growing trees
- the crown is irregular
- Vinegar tree grows to 4-6 m high in Germany
- grows very sprawling, is often multi-stemmed
Are the vinegar tree and the tree of heaven related?
No, despite similaritiesboth belong to different families The vinegar tree comes from the sumac family (Anacardiaceae). He immigrated to us from eastern North America. The tree of heaven belongs to the bitter ash family (Simaroubaceae). Its origins lie in China and Vietnam. Both have a strong urge to spread and are considered invasive plant species in Europe.
Are there differences in usage?
Both types of deciduous trees areused here exclusively as ornamental trees because their foliage is beautifully shaped and shines with beautiful red tones in autumn. The tart vinegar tree fruits are not poisonous but are edible. In North America they form the basis for a vitamin-rich, refreshing lemonade (Indian lemonade). They are also good for seasoning. The leaves of the tree of heaven are fed to silkworms in its native land, while the root and bark are valued in traditional medicine.
Tip
Vinegar tree and tree of heaven are a pasture for bees
The nectar and pole value of the vinegar tree is given as 3, which means “good”. The tree of heaven has a pollen value of 2 and a nectar value of 3. That's why the flowers of both tree species are often visited by bees.
