Weed Identification – East York*

(Question)

Trying to get some help in identifying this weed. It comes up every year. It grows everywhere. When it grows in the lawn it looks like a tree sapling. Anyhow, when you touch its leaves, an unpleasant musty smell remains on your fingers. I don’t know if it is considered “invasive”. I have two pics were it is growing at the side of a garage and is quite lengthy in height and a couple of other pics that I pulled from the driveway. Knowing what the weed will be the first in attempts of control.

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(Answer)

Thank you for contacting Toronto Master Gardeners.

You have Ailanthus altissima or Tree of Heaven. This is an extremely invasive tree that was introduced from Asia. It takes persistence to get rid of these foul smelling trees. I have included a link with more information on this invasive tree.

Good Luck.