Oregon Ash
Fraxinus latifolia
Also listed as Fraxinus oregona, Fraxinus californica
Climate Match for your location
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A native Pacific Northwest deciduous tree with compound leaves and clusters of small purple flowers in spring, followed by winged seed pods. It typically grows 40–80 feet tall and is valued for shade and wildlife habitat.
Why grow it
Oregon ash is a regionally appropriate choice for Pacific Northwest permaculture systems where native deciduous trees are preferred. Compared to introduced ash species, it is better adapted to wet soils and riparian conditions common in its native range. It provides reliable shade and food for wildlife while supporting local insect and bird populations that depend on native species.
Watch out for
Oregon ash tends to develop multiple stems and a spreading crown that may require early pruning if a single-trunk form is desired. Trees can take 15-20 years to reach substantial size, so site selection for long-term space requirements should be considered at planting. It prefers consistent moisture and does not tolerate prolonged drought as well as some alternative shade trees.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Oleaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
Pacific Northwest (Oregon, Washington, California)
Native to: California, Oregon, Washington
Seasonality
Season of Interest
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Sub-canopy
Smaller trees living beneath the canopy.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Flood Tolerance
Deer Resistance
Inferred from USDA browse palatability
pH Range
Soil Texture
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
A native Pacific Northwest deciduous tree with compound leaves and clusters of small purple flowers in spring, followed by winged seed pods. It typically grows 40–80 feet tall and is valued for shade and wildlife habitat.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Oregon Ash grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Oregon ash is a regionally appropriate choice for Pacific Northwest permaculture systems where native deciduous trees are preferred. Compared to introduced ash species, it is better adapted to wet soils and riparian conditions common in its native range. It provides reliable shade and food for wildlife while supporting local insect and bird populations that depend on native species.
Watch out for
Oregon ash tends to develop multiple stems and a spreading crown that may require early pruning if a single-trunk form is desired. Trees can take 15-20 years to reach substantial size, so site selection for long-term space requirements should be considered at planting. It prefers consistent moisture and does not tolerate prolonged drought as well as some alternative shade trees.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Oleaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
Pacific Northwest (Oregon, Washington, California)
Native to: California, Oregon, Washington
Seasonality
Season of Interest
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Sub-canopy
Smaller trees living beneath the canopy.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Flood Tolerance
Deer Resistance
Inferred from USDA browse palatability
pH Range
Soil Texture
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
Similar canopy trees you might consider:
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