PORTSMOUTH, Va. (WAVY) — An invasive species has been impacting Virginia and more than 40 other states in the U.S.

The Tree-of-heaven can get up to 8 feet tall. The appearance is similar to native sumac and walnut species. The plant got here after being used as an ornamental species. The flowers, leaves and wood all give off an odor “likened to rotting peanuts.”

The wind-born seeds can damage pipes and landscapes in urban areas as well as outcompete native plants. It produces a chemical inhibiting the growth of other plants.