Juglans spp.
Similar to Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle
Ailanthus may be confused with other trees having compound leaves and many leaflets; particularly two native trees Black Walnut (Juglans nigra L.), Butternut (Juglans cinerea L.). The leaf margins of these trees have small teeth, while those of Ailanthus are smooth. The gland-tipped leaflet lobes are unique to Ailanthus, as is the foul odor produced by crushed foliage and scraped bark. In winter, Ailanthus may be distinguished by the stout twigs, large leaf scars with numerous bundle scars, and false end buds.
Black walnut and butternut produce large round and oval nuts, respectively, encased in fleshy husks that produce a distinct odor. Both develop deeply ridged and fissured bark. The nuts are prized by wildlife and leaves are larval food for many moths and butterflies.