A plant known as a "tree of heaven" has been multiplying rapidly across empty lots in the Altadena burn scar area, and residents are calling it the "tree of hell."

Fire survivors who cleared their properties of charred debris just months ago are now battling tree jungles. Many are turning to neighborhood apps looking for help on how to manage the plant.

"It grows really fast, really fast and it spreads through like aggressive root systems and seeds," said Raquel Falco of Tree Path.

Grow Monrovia is one of the nonprofits responding with shovels and chemicals to help stop the spread of the trees.

For years, Rosemary Gavidia and Falco have helped homeowners throughout the San Gabriel foothills tackle the invasive tree from China, which first caused problems on the East Coast.

A few month

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