White Ash
Fraxinus americana · Deciduous hardwood
Plant Family
Oleaceae
Tree Category
Shade Tree, Forest Tree
Variety / Cultivar
Species type (Wild type)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 3 through 9
About This Tree
A large, graceful deciduous tree with an upright, rounded to oval crown at maturity, featuring strongly opposite branching and pinnately compound leaves
Leaf Characteristics
Opposite, pinnately compound leaves typically with 5 to 9 stalked leaflets that are ovate to lance-shaped with finely toothed or entire margins, showing prominent brown spots characteristic of leaf spot disease in the image
Bark Characteristics
Dark grey to brown bark with distinct, deep, interlacing diamond-shaped ridges and furrows that become more pronounced with age
Growing Information
Origin Region
Eastern and central North America
Growing Season
Spring leafing, inconspicuous spring flowers, summer seed production, and brilliant fall color before winter dormancy
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun to partial shade, prefers moist, well-drained soils, moderate drought tolerance once established
Mature Size
Height of 50 to 80 feet, spread of 50 to 80 feet, medium to fast growth rate, and a lifespan of up to 150 years
Special Characteristics
Known for exceptionally strong, shock-resistant wood traditionally used for tool handles and baseball bats, though currently threatened by the emerald ash borer
Wildlife & Ecology
Provides seeds, buds, and foliage consumed by various birds and mammals, and serves as a host plant for numerous butterfly and moth larvae