Ash: Characteristics and use

Ash

Fraxinus excelsior, the common Ash or the tall Ash, is a deciduous tree belonging to the Oleacea family. The genus Fraxinus comes from the word "spear" in Latin as their soldiers' spears were made from Ash wood. Common Ash is widely distributed in Europe and can grow up to 400m in height.

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Why does EcoTree plant Ash?

In several European countries, the common Ash is in significant decline due to the spread of a fungal disease, chalarosis. However, ash trees are home to a large number of animals, plants, and fungal species which depend on it. That's why it's important to ensure planting more and their survival. EcoTree repels chalarose invasions of Ash trees by diversifying our species.

Ash - Overview

The ash is recognizable by its large trunk whose bark is green-grey or yellowish, sleek before turning dull brown. It has black buds that are clearly visible in winter. Its dark green, deciduous , feathery leaves are divided up into 7 to 15 oval leaflets. They have sharp teeth and are oriented around the central rib, like a feather. They appear quite late in May and last through early winter, turning yellow in the autumn.
Its flowers appear in April to May and last until early winter. There are male ash trees, female ash trees, and hermaphrodite ash trees. Winged achene, or flattened samaras, contain one seed each.

Ash - Species requirements

Ash grows well in almost any soil, even limestone, but prefers deep, fertile, well-drained soil. It does not do well in tough, compact soil. The ash is a light species, needing sun exposure.

Common Ash's Wood

Resilient Ash wood is white with a pink and pearly tinge, quite hard, and resilient. It is also very pliable, making it good for making wooden tool handles. Furthermore, ash wood is often used for making music instruments, as well as in cabinetry.
In the Middle Ages, Ash was planted near castles to ensure a supply of lances, javelins, and spears. Nowadays, it is used in the manufacture of skis, oars, tennis rackets, billiard cues, and more.

Common Ash's Symbolism

Its hardwood has long made it the symbol of powerful solidity and immortality. It's been seen as a link to, and even sometimes as a medium between, heaven and earth. The ash is a protector of children, making it the perfect gift for a parent. What could be more original than giving a tree to your father or mother!

Give an eco-friendly gift and help improve the environmental footprint of the planet .

Our selection of trees

Our goal is to enable anyone to do something that benefits nature and helps us to live in a more harmonious world. So why not become a tree owner in a European forest and help combat climate change?