Weeping Ash Fraxinus excelsior 'Pendula'

Names

• Family

  Oleaceae

• Synonyms

  Weeping Ash

• Common names

  Fraxinus excelsior 'Pendula'.

Toxicity

• To humans

  European Ash (Fraxinus excelsior 'Pendula') is not commonly listed as a toxic plant to humans. However, it's worth noting that plant toxicity can vary, and some individuals may experience allergic reactions or skin irritation from handling plants or their sap. Ingesting parts of the European Ash is not generally associated with serious poisoning in humans. If there were any symptoms, they might include stomach discomfort, but such reactions would be uncommon.

• To pets

  For pets, the European Ash is also not typically recognized as a poisonous plant. It does not contain known toxic compounds that would pose a risk to dogs, cats, or other household pets if ingested in small quantities. However, as with any non-food plant material, ingestion of leaves or wood could potentially cause mild gastrointestinal upset or an obstruction. If a pet ingests a large amount of the plant and shows signs of distress, it is prudent to consult a veterinarian.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Height

  15 feet (4.5 meters)

• Spread

  25 feet (7.6 meters)

• Plant type

  Tree

• Hardiness zones

  5

• Native area

  Europe

General Benefits

• Ornamental value: Fraxinus excelsior 'Pendula', commonly known as weeping ash, has a unique and elegant growth habit with its weeping branches, adding visual interest to landscapes.
• Shade provision: Due to its size and dense foliage, it can provide ample shade in gardens, parks, and other outdoor spaces, creating cooler areas during hot weather.
• Habitat for wildlife: The weeping ash is known to support a variety of wildlife, including birds and insects, which find both food and shelter in the tree.
• Seasonal interest: This tree offers a range of seasonal changes from its fresh green leaves in spring to its autumnal yellow color before the leaves fall, adding seasonal beauty to its surroundings.
• Erosion control: The extensive root system of the weeping ash can help stabilize the soil and prevent erosion, particularly on slopes or near water bodies.
• Increased biodiversity: Introducing weeping ash into an area can enhance local biodiversity, providing different ecological niches for species to thrive.
• Historical significance: Weeping ash is often found in heritage gardens and can contribute to the historical ambiance of a place due to its longstanding cultivation and traditional use in European landscapes.

Medical Properties

• Anti-inflammatory: The bark of Fraxinus excelsior, commonly known as European ash, has been traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory properties.
• Diuretic effects: The leaves are believed to promote the production of urine, aiding in the removal of excess fluids from the body.
• Laxative properties: There is historical use of the bark as a mild laxative.
• Rheumatic pain relief: The bark has been used in the past to ease rheumatic pain.
• Fever reduction: Historically, the leaves and bark of Fraxinus excelsior 'Pendula' have been utilized to reduce fevers.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Fraxinus excelsior 'Pendula', also known as weeping ash, can be incorporated into landscape design as a natural privacy screen due to its dense foliage.
• The wood of the weeping ash is prized for tool handles because of its toughness and flexibility.
• Weeping ash trees can be used in agroforestry systems, where their deep roots can help to prevent soil erosion and improve water retention.
• The durable wood from weeping ash is suitable for making long-lasting outdoor furniture.
• Weeping ash is often used as a focal point in gardens due to its striking form and the aesthetic appeal of its weeping branches.
• The tree is sometimes planted in large public parks as part of commemorations or memorials, where its distinctive look stands as a living monument.
• Wood from the weeping ash can be used in the production of musical instruments, such as electric guitar bodies, for a distinctive tone.
• In rural landscapes, the weeping ash may be used to create or reinforce hedgerows along property lines.
• The tree’s fibrous wood is also sometimes used for woodturning and crafting decorative items.
• Weeping ash branches may be used in floral arrangements and artistic installations for their unique shape and texture.

Feng Shui

The Weeping Ash is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The Weeping Ash is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Strength and Endurance: Fraxinus excelsior, commonly known as the European Ash or simply Ash tree, has wood known for its strength and flexibility. Because of these properties, it symbolizes strength and the ability to endure life's challenges.
• Protection: In Norse mythology, the Ash tree is associated with Yggdrasil, the World Tree, which is considered to provide protection to the universe. It carries the symbolism of guardianship and protection in various cultures.
• Healing: Historically, the Ash tree's leaves and bark were used for medicinal purposes, symbolizing healing and health.
• Wisdom and Knowledge: With its connection to Yggdrasil, which is central to the cosmos in Norse cosmology, Ash is seen as a symbol of wisdom and knowledge.
• New Beginnings: As Ash trees are prolific seeders and can regenerate from the stump after being cut, they represent new beginnings and the cycle of growth and renewal.
• Connection Between Worlds: In many mythologies, Ash trees represent the connection between earthly existence and the spiritual realm, symbolizing balance and the link between the known and unknown.