White Ash

Fraxinus americana image of White Ash tree, leaves, and seeds

White ash is a large tree which prefers deep, moist soils. It will also tolerate drier sites. White ash is found statewide and has been planted extensively as a shade tree. Its wood is valuable for the handles of striking tools, boat paddles, baseball bats and furniture.

Identifying Characteristics

Height
85 ft
Spread
60 ft
Leaves
opposite, compound, 8" - 12" long; usually 7 leaflets, each leaflet 2 l/2" - 5" long, oval, finely toothed; dark green above, whitish below
Flowers
male and female flowers on separate trees; l/4" long, purplish, in small clusters
Fruit
winged seed; l" - 2" long
Bark
dark gray; with deep diamond-shaped furrows and forking ridges
Associated species
eastern white pine, northern red oak, white oak, tulip tree
Ideal site conditions
moist soil, partial sun
Value to man
wood products, windbreaks, food
Value to wildlife
food, dens
Growth Rate
medium
Range
Range