Tree-of-Heaven (Ailanthus altissima): enormous and wide potential neglected by the western civilisation

The paper focuses on the main wood and timber characteristics and technological properties of the Tree-of-Heaven (Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle), derived during a two-year research project. Beside that, essential background information concerning the contradicting appearance and timber quality as well as the different point of view and cultural status of Ailanthus in China, as the country of origin, and in the “new” homelands North America and Europe are briefly discussed. The paper closes with recommendations concerning the usability of the timber and points out the wide field of application for furniture and construction purposes reflecting the enormous and wide potential
which is as far as possible neglected by the Western civilisation