White Ash
Fraxinus americana · Deciduous, Broadleaf, Hardwood
Plant Family
Oleaceae
Tree Category
Shade Tree, Forest Tree, Timber Tree
Variety / Cultivar
Native species (no specific cultivar identified)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 3 through 9
About This Tree
A large, stately forest tree with a straight trunk and a dense, pyramidal to rounded crown. Known for its symmetrical branching and rapid growth in youth.
Leaf Characteristics
Pinnately compound, typically 5-9 leaflets; leaflets are oval to lance-shaped, dark green above and lighter/whitish underneath, arranged oppositely.
Bark Characteristics
Distinctive 'ashy' gray color with deep diamond-shaped fissures and interlacing ridges on mature specimens, as seen in the provided image.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Eastern and Central North America
Growing Season
Leafs out late spring (April/May), flowers before leaves, drops leaves in early autumn after purple/gold color change, dormant in winter.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun to partial shade; prefers moist, well-drained loamy soils but is adaptable to various moisture levels.
Mature Size
60-80 feet height, 40-50 feet spread; moderate growth rate, can live 150-200 years.
Special Characteristics
High timber value for tool handles and baseball bats; notable purple-to-yellow fall foliage; currently under severe threat by the Emerald Ash Borer.
Wildlife & Ecology
Provides seeds (samaras) for birds and small mammals; host plant for several sphinx moth larvae; provides nesting sites for cavity-nesting birds.