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Tree Guide

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White AshFraxinus americana

  • Northern Red Oak - Quercus rubra
  • White Ash
The white ash is a handsome tree native to North America. It shades many parks, large yards, and other sizable areas and provides exquisite fall color ranging from yellow to deep purple and maroon. Beyond its landscape value, the tree has made its mark as the wood used to make baseball bats.

Unfortunately, the white ash is coming under attack by the emerald ash borer, which is spreading across the country.

Hardiness Zones

The white ash can be expected to grow in Hardiness Zones 4–9. View Map

Tree Type

This tree is considered both a shade tree and an ornamental tree. It features a spreading canopy capable of blocking sunlight and adds visual interest and beauty to landscaping.

Mature Size

The white ash grows to a height of 50–80' and a spread of 40–50' at maturity.

Growth Speed Medium Growth Rate

This tree grows at a medium rate, with height increases of 13–24" per year.

Sun Preference

Full sun is the ideal condition for this tree, meaning it should get at least six hours of direct, unfiltered sunlight each day.

Soil Preference

The white ash grows well in acidic, alkaline, loamy, moist, sandy, well-drained and wet soils.

Attributes

This tree:
  • Provides beautiful yellow, deep purple and maroon fall color.
  • Features compound leaves 8–15" in length with 5–9 dark green leaflets.
  • Produces green to purple flowers that are not ornamental, typically blooming in April.
  • Yields elongated samaras 1–2" in length, each with a wing, that resemble canoe paddles.
  • Grows in an oval or pyramidal shape early on, rounding out with age.
  • Comes in a multitude of different cultivars.
  • Does not like harsh conditions.

Wildlife Value

The seeds of the green ash are eaten by wood ducks, finches and cardinals. It also provides cover and nesting sites for birds.

History/Lore

The white ash is famous for one of its basic wood products—the baseball bat. No other wood has the pliant, strong, yet light qualities of ash wood. The wood is also extensively used for non-impact tool handles, furniture, hockey sticks, polo mallets, church pews and other products