1Botany a tree of the genus Ailanthus, especially Ailanthus altissima; a tree of heaven.
2Cultural Anthropology a mythical tree growing from the underworld, through the earth, and up to heaven, which figures in some Malay and Polynesian beliefs (rare).
Origin
Mid 19th century.
Definition of heaven-tree in US English:
heaven-tree
noun
1Botany a tree of the genus Ailanthus, especially Ailanthus altissima; a tree of heaven.
2Cultural Anthropology a mythical tree growing from the underworld, through the earth, and up to heaven, which figures in some Malay and Polynesian beliefs (rare).