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White Ash

Fraxinus americana

Also listed as Fraxinus biltmoreana, Aplilia macrophyla

Also known as American Ash, Cane Ash

tree☀️ full sun💧💧 moderate water❄ Hardy: Zone 3b – Zone 9b

Climate Match for your location

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A large native deciduous tree with compound leaves that turn brilliant yellow or purple in fall. Valuable for timber and shade, with minimal pest problems.

Why grow it

White ash grows quickly and reaches substantial size, making it useful for timber production and large-scale shade where a native deciduous canopy is desired. Compared to other ash species, it tolerates a wider range of soil conditions and establishes readily in eastern North American landscapes. Its compound foliage and fall color offer architectural interest with relatively low maintenance once established.

Watch out for

White ash requires adequate moisture during establishment and performs best in well-drained soils; drought stress in saplings can slow growth. The tree's large size at maturity demands space away from structures and utilities, and branch angles can be somewhat narrow, making young trees prone to splitting under heavy snow or ice loads without early pruning guidance.

Overview

Form
Pyramidal
Growth Rate
moderate
Size
50–90′ tall × 40–50′ wide
Dormancy
deciduous
Family
Oleaceae
biomass/mulchfiberwildlife benefitwindbreak
Coppicing

Native to the United States

Native Range

Eastern North America

Native to: Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Mississippi, North Carolina, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Vermont, Wisconsin, West Virginia

Seasonality

Season of Interest

SpringFall

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Companion Planting

Plants well with