White Ash
Fraxinus americana · Deciduous Broadleaf Hardwood
Plant Family
Oleaceae
Tree Category
Shade Tree, Forest Tree
Variety / Cultivar
Species type (Wild type), no specific named cultivar identified
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 3 through 9
About This Tree
A large, graceful deciduous tree with an upright to rounded crown, featuring stout branches, opposite branching pattern, and high-quality hardwood timber
Leaf Characteristics
Opposite, pinnately compound leaves typically with 5 to 9 leaflets, ovate to lanceolate shaped, dark green above and paler below, with finely toothed or entire margins
Bark Characteristics
Ashes typically feature distinct diamond-shaped ridges and furrows that form a neat, interlacing pattern as the tree ages, dark gray to brown
Growing Information
Origin Region
Eastern and central North America
Growing Season
Leafs out in late spring, produces small inconspicuous flowers in spring, drops leaves in autumn after turning vibrant purple-yellow, and enters winter dormancy
Sunlight & Water Needs
Prefers full sun to partial shade, requires moderate and consistent watering especially when young, with moderate drought tolerance once established
Mature Size
Mature height of 50 to 80 feet, spread of 40 to 70 feet, moderate to fast growth rate, and a lifespan of up to 150 years
Special Characteristics
Renowned for high-impact fall color ranging from yellow to deep purple, heavy durable wood historically used for tool handles and baseball bats, though heavily threatened by the emerald ash borer
Wildlife & Ecology
Provides food for various mammals and birds that consume the seeds (samaras), serves as a host plant for numerous butterfly and moth larvae, and supports native woodland biodiversity