Tree-of-Heaven

The fallen trees along the trail are known as tree-of-heaven. Originally from China, they have spread widely in North America as an invasive species. They are easy to spot by their large seed pods and reproduce quickly, which allows them to push out native species. They also release harmful chemicals into the soil that kill nearby native plants. In addition, tree-of-heaven has helped to increase the spread of an invasive insect called the spotted lanternfly. The lanternflies like to lay their eggs on these trees while feeding on and damaging many native trees.