White Ash

White Ash Fraxinus americana Full sun; medium moisture level; prefers fertile deep soils but will withstand a variety of soils as long as they are not too rocky or dry; slightly acid to neutral pH. 60-90 feet height by 25-60 feet spread; tiny green to purple flowers on separate male and female trees in April; female trees produce dense clusters of tan, winged seeds up to 2 inches long. Growth Rate: Medium Maintenance: Susceptible to many disease and insect problems. Emerald ash borer has wreaked havoc on native ash. Brittle branches susceptible to wind damage. Propagation: Seed germination code E. 68-86 degrees F. for 30 days followed by 41 degrees F. for 60 days. Native Region: Statewide Largest of our native ashes with a rounded, dense crown. Will tolerate quite a bit of shade but needs quite a bit of sun to get a full crown.   Autumn color can be red, purple or yellow. Cultivars available Planting of this tree is no longer recommended due to Emerald ash borer. Emerald ash borer can kill a tree within 3-5 years after infestation. Once infested, very difficult to control. Also most susceptible of the Ash species to ash yellows which is caused by an organism similar to a virus, and once infected, not much can be done. Generally low wildlife value. Larval host to Mourning Cloak, Red-spotted Purple, Tiger Swallowtail and several Sulphur butterflies. Provides good cover and nesting sites for birds. tree;sun;medium;clay tree;sun;medium;loam tree;sun;medium;sand

Photo Courtesy of John Hilty http://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/ Photo Courtesy of John Hilty http://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/ Photo Courtesy of Paul Wray Iowa State University, Bugwood.org Photo Courtesy of Wikipedia http://www.wikipedia.org