About
Fraxinus americana, the American ash, is a fast-growing, broadly columnar, deciduous tree reaching around 25 m tall with rich-green, pinnate leaves to 35 cm long composed of 3�5 tapered leaflets, turning yellow then deep purple in autumn. One of the finest ashes for autumn colour, and widely planted as a landscape tree in North America.
About the genus
Fraxinus, the ash trees, are medium-sized to large, mostly deciduous trees with attractive, pinnate leaves, sometimes conspicuous flowers, autumn colour, and distinctive winged fruits (keys). Widely grown as landscape, street and ornamental trees in temperate gardens.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAlkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeTrees
HabitSpreading branched
FoliageDeciduous
HeightHigher than 12 metres
Spreadwider than 8 metres
Time to full height20-50 years
Suggested usesCoastal, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
Native toC & E North America
Care notes
CultivationExcellent for woodland and coastal gardens where there is moist but well-drained alkaline or neutral soil and full sun. See tree cultivation
PruningPruning group 1
PropagationPropagate by seed or grafting
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceAsh dieback has recently been found in the UK. Restrictions have been put in place (from 29 October 2012) regarding both the importation of ash from abroad and the movement of ash within the UK. May also be susceptible to honey fungus