Common ash Fraxinus excelsior
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ABOUT
Common ash is a large, deciduous tree that is native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa. It is a member of the Oleaceae (olive) family and is closely related to other ash species, such as white ash and black ash.
Common ash trees can grow up to 100 feet tall and have a rounded crown with a spreading canopy. They have a straight, upright trunk with smooth, gray bark that becomes more deeply furrowed with age. The leaves of the common ash tree are opposite and pinnately compound, with 7-13 leaflets arranged along a central stem. The leaflets are lance-shaped, with a glossy green upper surface and a pale green or silver-white lower surface.
In the spring, common ash trees produce small, greenish-yellow flowers that are arranged in clusters along the branches. The flowers give way to green, winged seeds called samaras, which are often used as a food source for birds and other animals.
Common ash is a popular landscaping tree due to its fast growth rate, attractive appearance, and ability to tolerate a wide range of soil and climatic conditions. It is also valued for its strong, durable wood, which is often used in the manufacture of furniture, flooring, and other products.
About this plant
Names
Family
Oleaceae
Synonyms
European ash, Ache, Ash, Common ash
Common names
Fraxinus excelsior
Toxicity
To humans
Common ash is generally considered to be non-toxic to humans. However, as with any plant, it is possible that some people may be allergic to certain parts of the ash tree, and may develop a rash or other allergic reaction if they come into contact with the plant.
So keep the plant out of reach and to consult with a veterinarian or a professional plant expert for further guidance.To pets
Common ash is generally considered to be non-toxic to animals. However, as with any plant, it is possible that some animals may be allergic to certain parts of the ash tree, such as the leaves or seeds, and may develop a rash or other allergic reaction if they come into contact with the plant.
So keep the plant out of reach and to consult with a veterinarian or a professional plant expert for further guidance.
Characteristics
Life cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green; yellow in the fall
Flower color
Dark purple
Height
Up to 100 feet
Plant type
Tree
Hardiness zones
2
Native area
Europe, Asia, and North Africa
Benefits
General Benefits
Common ash trees are known for their fast growth rate and can quickly reach their mature size, making them a good choice for those looking to establish a tree canopy in their yard or landscape in a short period of time;
Have very decorative appearence;
Common ash trees are tolerant of a wide range of soil and climatic conditions and can be grown in most parts of the United States;
The tree is valued for its strong, durable wood, which is often used in the manufacture of furniture, flooring, and other products.Medical Properties
Some of the potential health benefits of common ash include:
Anti-inflammatory: Common ash is thought to have anti-inflammatory properties and has been used to treat a variety of inflammatory conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and asthma.
Antioxidant: The tree is rich in antioxidants, which are compounds that help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. This property may help to reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases, such as heart disease and cancer.
Diuretic: Ash is a natural diuretic, meaning that it can help increase the production of urine and flush excess fluids and toxins from the body. This property may be helpful in treating conditions such as edema (swelling) and high blood pressure.
Anti-spasmodic: Common ash has been traditionally used to treat spasms and cramps, including those associated with the digestive system.
While common ash is believed to have these medicinal properties, it is important to note that more research is needed to fully understand its potential health benefits and to determine safe and effective dosages. It is also important to consult with a healthcare provider before using common ash or any other natural remedy for medicinal purposes.Air-purifying Qualities
Oxygen production: Like all trees, Fraxinus excelsior produces oxygen through the process of photosynthesis, which helps to improve air quality and promote human health.
Carbon sequestration: Trees like Fraxinus excelsior absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and store it in their tissues, which can help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate climate change.
Particulate matter removal: Trees have been found to be effective at removing particulate matter from the air, including pollutants such as dust, smoke, and pollen. Fraxinus excelsior's dense foliage may help to trap and filter these pollutants.
Noise reduction: Trees have also been found to be effective at reducing noise pollution, which can have negative impacts on human health and well-being. Fraxinus excelsior's thick canopy may help to absorb and reduce noise from traffic and other sources.Other Uses
Common ash is used for food. In some cultures, the seeds of the common ash tree (also known as "ash keys") have been used as a food source. The seeds can be roasted and ground into a flour or used as a substitute for coffee;
The bark and leaves of the common ash tree contain tannins, which can be used to produce a yellow dye. The dye can be used to color textiles and other materials;
Common ash is valued for its strong, durable wood, which is often used in the manufacture of furniture, flooring, and other products. The wood is also used to make baseball bats and other sporting equipment;
The wood of the Common ash tree is used to make a variety of musical instruments, including violins, violas, and cellos;
Common ash is a popular choice for firewood due to its good burning properties and attractive appearance.
Interesting Facts
Feng Shui
In feng shui, Fraxinus excelsior is not a commonly used plant for enhancing energy flow or promoting balance and harmony in a space.
Zodiac Sign Compitability
In astrology, there is no direct compatibility between Fraxinus excelsior and zodiac signs.
Plant Symbolism
The common ash tree has a long history and has been revered in many cultures for its strength, durability, and beauty. In some traditions, the ash tree has been associated with a number of symbolic meanings, including:
Strength. In some cultures, the ash tree has been seen as a symbol of strength and endurance.
Protection. In some traditions, the ash tree is believed to offer protection against negative energies and to bring good luck.
Wisdom. In Norse mythology, the ash tree is associated with the god Odin and is seen as a symbol of wisdom and knowledge. In some cultures, the ash tree is also associated with divination and prophecy.
Creativity. In some traditions, the ash tree is seen as a symbol of creativity and inspiration and is associated with artists, writers, and other creative individuals.
Water
Water newly planted ash trees regularly. When you first plant a common ash tree, it is important to keep the soil evenly moist to help the tree establish its root system. Water the tree deeply 1 - 2 times a week, depending on the weather and soil conditions.
Water ash trees deeply. When you water an ash tree, it is important to water deeply to encourage deep root growth. A deep watering once a week is usually sufficient, but you may need to water more frequently in extremely hot or dry conditions.
While ash trees do need regular watering, it is important to avoid over-watering, which can lead to root rot and other problems.Light
Common ash trees prefer full sun to partial shade, meaning that they grow best in an area that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. While common ash trees can tolerate some shade, they may not grow as well or produce as many leaves and flowers in shadier locations.
Temperature
In general, common ash trees can tolerate temperatures as low as -30°F and as high as 110°F.
The best temperature for common ash trees will depend on the tree's location, age, and other factors. In general, ash trees grow best in temperatures that range from 60°F to 75°F during the day and 50°F to 60°F at night.Pruning
When an ash tree is young, it is important to prune it to establish a strong, healthy structure. This may include removing any crossed or rubbing branches, as well as any branches that are growing in the wrong direction. As an ash tree matures, it may develop a dense canopy that needs to be thinned to allow light and air to reach the inner branches. This can help prevent pests and diseases and encourage healthy growth. The best time to prune common ash trees is during the dormant season, when the tree is not actively growing. This is typically in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins.
Cleaning
Not needed
Soil
Common ash trees do not tolerate wet or poorly drained soil, as this can lead to root rot and other problems.
Avoid heavy, clay soil. Clay soil is often heavy and poorly draining, which can be problematic for ash trees. If you have clay soil, you may need to add organic matter to improve the soil structure and drainage.
To improve the fertility and structure of the soil for your ash tree, you can add compost or well-rotted manure to the planting area.
Common ash trees prefer soil with a slightly acidic pH range of 6.0 to 6.5.Repotting
This is an outdoor tree, so transplanting is not required.
Humidity & Misting
If you are growing an ash tree in a location with very low humidity, you may need to provide additional moisture to the air to help keep the tree healthy. This can be done by misting the leaves of the tree with water.
On the other hand, if you are growing an ash tree in a location with very high humidity, you may need to take steps to reduce the humidity around the tree. This can be done by providing good air circulation around the tree and by avoiding over-watering the soil.Suitable locations
Indoor
Not growing
Outdoor
All year round
Hardiness zone
3 - 9 USDA
Life cycle
If you are planting your tree in the fall, it is generally best to plant it at least a few weeks before the first frost to allow the tree time to become established before winter. If you are planting your tree in the spring, it is generally best to wait until after the last frost to avoid damaging the tree's roots.
When it comes to blooming, in general, common ash trees begin to bloom in late April or early May, with the flowers appearing on the tree's bare branches before the leaves emerge.
After blooming, the flowers are replaced by small, green seed pods that mature in the fall. The seeds are dispersed by the wind and are an important food source for a variety of birds and small mammals.Propogation
Propogation time
Spring
The best time to propagate common ash trees depends on the method you choose and the location and climate in which you are growing the tree.
By SEEDS:
Common ash trees can be propagated by seed, but this method is often unreliable, as the seeds have a low germination rate and may not produce trees that are true to the parent plant. If you do choose to propagate common ash trees by seed, it is best to collect the seeds in the fall when they are mature, and stratify them (expose them to cold temperatures) for a period of time before planting. The seeds can then be sown in pots or a seedbed in the spring.
By CUTTINGS:
Common ash trees can also be propagated by cuttings. This method is generally more reliable than seed propagation, as it produces trees that are true to the parent plant. To propagate common ash trees by cuttings, take softwood cuttings in the summer when the tree is actively growing. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in pots filled with a rooting medium. Keep the cuttings moist and protected from direct sunlight until they are well-rooted.
By ROOT DIVISION:
Common ash trees can also be propagated by root division. This method is best done in the fall or early spring when the tree is dormant. To propagate common ash trees by root division, carefully dig up the tree and divide the roots into smaller sections, making sure each section has an adequate amount of roots and a few buds. Replant the sections in pots or a prepared bed and water them well.
Pests
Ash borer, Ash sawfly, Ash whitefly, Ash leaf curl aphid, Ash scale
Diseases
Root Rot, Ash dieback, Ash yellow, Ash rust, Ash canker