Weeping Ash Fraxinus excelsior 'Pendula'
![weeping ash](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fplants-admin.emdemapps.com%2Fimages%2Fplants%2F%2Fimages%2F604b585b259db.png&w=3840&q=75)
ABOUT
Fraxinus excelsior 'Pendula', commonly known as the weeping ash, is a stunning ornamental tree that boasts a distinctive growth habit. It has a graceful, weeping form that makes it an eye-catching addition to any landscape. The branches sweep downwards, creating a fountain-like effect which is particularly striking. Its leaves are complex and made up of multiple leaflets, arranged in pairs along a central stem with a single leaflet at the tip. This compound leaf structure gives the foliage a lush, feathery appearance. During the growing season, the leaves are a vibrant green, turning to an array of yellow hues in the fall, providing seasonal interest. The weeping ash is adorned with clusters of small, purplish flowers in the spring, which are not particularly showy but add a subtle charm to the tree as they develop before the foliage. As the seasons progress, these may develop into winged seeds that hang in bunches from the branches, providing textural and visual interest even after the leaves have fallen. Overall, its unique form and attractive foliage make the weeping ash a popular choice for those who wish to add a dramatic focal point in their gardens, without commenting on the tree's specific dimensions.
About this plant
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
Benefits
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.
Interesting Facts
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.
Water
The Weeping Ash should be watered deeply once a week, providing about 1.5 gallons of water each time for young trees. Mature trees may only require watering during prolonged dry spells. It's crucial to allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent root rot. During hot, dry weather, you might need to water twice a week. Water the trees at the base directly to ensure the root zone is sufficiently moistened.
Light
The Weeping Ash thrives best in full sunlight. It requires at least six hours of direct, unfiltered sunlight each day. The ideal spot for this tree is in an open area away from taller structures or trees that might shade it. Partial shade is tolerable but may reduce the tree's vigor and density.
Temperature
The Weeping Ash can tolerate a range of temperatures and is hardy in USDA zones 4 through 7. It can survive minimum temperatures down to -30°F and maximum temperatures typically no higher than 90°F. The ideal temperature range for healthy growth is between 50°F and 80°F.
Pruning
Pruning of the Weeping Ash should be done in late winter or early spring before new growth starts to remove any damaged or dead branches and to shape the tree. It generally requires light pruning every 2 to 3 years to maintain its form and health. The best time for significant pruning is when the tree is dormant.
Cleaning
As needed
Soil
Weeping Ash thrives in well-drained, fertile loam with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. A mix of loamy garden soil, compost, and perlite or sand enhances soil structure, promotes drainage, and provides nutrients.
Repotting
Weeping Ash trees are typically large and planted outdoors, therefore they do not require repotting. Regular monitoring and maintenance of soil health are essential.
Humidity & Misting
Weeping Ash tolerates a wide range of humidity levels but prefers normal outdoor conditions. Humidity specifics are generally not required for this outdoor tree.
Suitable locations
Indoor
Not suitable for indoor growth due to size.
Outdoor
Plant in well-draining soil, full sun, space for canopy.
Hardiness zone
4-7 USDA.
Life cycle
Fraxinus excelsior 'Pendula', commonly known as the Weeping Ash, begins its life cycle with the germination of a seed, which occurs in spring after stratification during the cold winter months. The seedling phase follows, characterized by rapid growth as the plant establishes its root system and begins to grow its distinctive weeping branches. After several years, the Weeping Ash enters a prolonged juvenile phase where it steadily grows and matures, eventually reaching reproductive maturity. It begins to flower in early spring, with the flowers giving way to winged fruits known as samaras, which are dispersed by wind in late autumn. Over many years, the Weeping Ash reaches full maturity and may achieve a substantial height and spread, with weeping branches that form a distinctive canopy. As an adult, the tree continues to go through cycles of flowering and fruiting, which can last for several decades before it eventually enters senescence and dies.
Propogation
Propogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Fraxinus excelsior 'Pendula', commonly known as the Weeping Ash, can be propagated most effectively through grafting. This method is typically carried out in late winter or early spring before the sap begins to rise in the plants. Grafting involves taking a cutting from a mature Weeping Ash tree, which is known as a scion, and attaching it to a rootstock of a common Ash species. The scion, usually about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) in length, is cut at a diagonal to expose more of the cambium layer, which is where the growth occurs. The corresponding cut is made in the rootstock, and then the two pieces are bound together tightly with grafting tape or similar material to maintain contact until the graft has taken, which is indicated by the growth of new shoots. This method is favored because it preserves the weeping characteristic of the cultivar, which would not be guaranteed through seed propagation.