Relating to or derived from the ailanthus tree, a fast-growing Asian tree with feathery leaves and distinctive seed pods.
From ailanthus (from Ambonese 'ailantus' meaning 'tree of heaven') plus the suffix -ic meaning 'relating to or characterized by.' The term emerged in botanical English in the 19th century.
The ailanthus tree is so aggressive at reproducing that it's considered invasive in North America, but in its native Indonesia it's called 'tree of heaven'—same plant, completely different reputation depending on where you are!
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