Ailanthus confucii Seed Green River Formation Middle Eocene Lincoln County, Wyoming
Here is an excellent example of the winged seed of Ailanthus which is a close relative of the Tree of Heaven. The seed core is clearly visible and the venation in the seed wings is evident The seed is over 3 cm long. It was collected from the 18 inch layer. Ailanthus is a member of Sapindales family that includes Sumac, Astronium, Soapberry and Tree of Heaven. A. confucii has a very characteristic winged seed shape. Today Ailanthus is survived by ten living species and the genus is native only to Asia, Australia, and New Guinea. Although found in the Green River Formation it eventually became extinct in North America.
