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Encyclopaedia of trees- Choosing shrubs and trees
- Common Ash (Fraxinus excelsior)
Common Ash (Fraxinus excelsior)
The Common Ash is one of the most majestic European trees, growing to heights of 40m. The crown is ovoid or round. Forms stands in alluvial soils and gorges, weedy deciduous forests, along rivers and streams, and on stony slopes.
Leaves
Odd-pinnate, oblong leaflets, 20-40cm long, 10-20cm wide. Notched edge. Leaves are green above, pale green below, turning yellow in autumn.
Flowers
Flowering period: IV-V, inconspicuous yellowish green panicles; appear before the shoots.
Bark
Grey, occasionally grey-green bark, with regular chambering or hard ridges. Branches are grey or olive grey.
Photos
Types of damage
Application
Open country, afforestation, open fields, tip afforestation, stabilization of shores and hillsides, noise abatement, wind-break, forage for honey-bees, parks, urban areas, roadside verges, car parks, pedestrian precincts
Native regions
Central and northern Europe, Northern Asia, Siberia
Location parameters
Light: full sun to off-sun, temperature: warm to cool, soil: moist to wet, stagnant moisture: to be avoided, soil structure: normal to loose, soil depth: medium to very deep, soil quality: medium to high, pH value: 5.5 to 8.0
Demands
Sun to slight shade; likes warmth, sometimes damaged by late frosts although frost-hardy; also for cool locations with high humidity; prefers nutrient-rich chalky substrates; tolerant of urban climates; moderately salt-tolerant, resistant to wind
Growth
Height of growth: 20m to 35m, spread: 10m to15m, rapid growth potential, growth habits: wide, rounded, open, upright, pendent, spreading, central leader
Leaves
Odd-pinnate, oblong leaflets, 20-40cm long, 10-20cm wide. Notched edge. Leaves are green above, pale green below, turning yellow in autumn.
Flowers
Flowering period: IV-V, inconspicuous yellowish green panicles; appear before the shoots.
Fruits
Narrow oblong nut winged on one side, 2.5-5cm long; appears in clusters.
Bark
Grey, occasionally grey-green bark, with regular chambering or hard ridges. Branches are grey or olive grey.
Roots
Deep-rooting, taprooting, fine root system, extensive root system