White Ash
Fraxinus americana · Deciduous hardwood
Plant Family
Oleaceae
Tree Category
Shade Tree / Forest Tree
Variety / Cultivar
Species type (no specific named cultivar identified from bark alone)
Hardiness Zones
Thrives in USDA Hardiness Zones 3 through 9
About This Tree
A medium to large deciduous tree with an upright, oval to rounded crown at maturity, known for its straight trunk, strong wood, and distinctively textured bark.
Leaf Characteristics
Oppositely arranged, pinnately compound leaves typically featuring 5 to 9 leaflets with smooth or finely toothed margins, turning vibrant shades of purple and yellow in autumn
Bark Characteristics
Characterized by deep, narrow furrows with interlacing ridge patterns that often create a distinct diamond-shaped network, grayish-brown to dark gray in color
Growing Information
Origin Region
Eastern and central North America
Growing Season
Spring leaf-out, inconspicuous flowers in spring, followed by winged samaras, entering dormancy in late autumn with purple-to-yellow fall foliage
Sunlight & Water Needs
Prefers full sun to partial shade and moist, well-draining soils, though it exhibits moderate drought tolerance once established
Mature Size
Reaches heights of 50 to 80 feet with a spread of 40 to 70 feet, exhibiting a moderate to fast growth rate and a lifespan of up to 150 years or more
Special Characteristics
Renowned for the exceptional shock resistance and flexibility of its wood, historically used for tool handles, baseball bats, and furniture, as well as notable fall color
Wildlife & Ecology
Provides crucial food and habitat, with seeds consumed by birds and small mammals, foliage browsed by deer, and serving as a host plant for numerous native insect species