Ailanthus altissima also known as Tree of Heaven or just sumac

This is a tree found in disturbed landscape, often in urban areas. In the most tree unfriendly urban locations it may be the only species able to survive. Ailanthus is regarded as an invasive species in North America and is widely disliked, but it is remarkable in its ability to absorb and resist the effects of pollutants. In the city it is here to stay and once in awhile a good climber can be found. Its wood is fairly light and soft, similar to some poplar species in density if not lighter. Before climbing a vigilant inspection is required, the tree is not forgiving. If there is a hollow or co-dominant or otherwise compromised aspect of the tree structure it must be identified: branch or trunk failure is a real possibility. I tie into heavier than usual branches to be on the safe side but have found that if the trunk, limb or joint is healthy, the wood is quite strong even to narrow diameters. Even so it is best to locate a top to bottom healthy specimen and tie-in where the branch joins the trunk or create a false crotch on a spar. The bark is smooth and friendly and doesn't grab your throwbag. It's relatively easy to advance your rope in its simple branch structure. The ailanthus is monoecious meaning one house for each gender: there are male and female trees. The male tree in flower smells like an alley full of tomcats but otherwise the tree is inoffensive. I like the ailanthus for its exotic and primitive quality, the pinnate leaf structure reminds me of the paintings of Henri Rousseau, once you get over the tree's bad reputation it can start to grow on you.
-moss