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Description
Fraxinus Angustifolia, commonly known as Narrow-leaved Ash, is a deciduous tree native to Europe and Asia. It can grow up to 30 meters tall and 1 meter in diameter. The tree has a straight trunk with a gray and smooth bark that becomes rougher as it ages. Its leaves are alternate, pinnate, and elongated, measuring about 20-30 cm long with 7-13 leaflets. In autumn, the leaves turn a beautiful yellow color before they fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Oleaceae |
| Genus | Fraxinus |
Appearance
Fraxinus Angustifolia has a dense, oval to rounded crown that spreads to a width of about 15-20 meters. The tree has a deep and extensive root system that enables it to grow in various soil conditions. Its flowers are small and greenish-purple, appearing in clusters on the tree’s branches in spring. The tree’s fruits are winged samaras, measuring about 3-5 cm long, which ripen in autumn. The samaras are brown and fall off the tree when they are mature.
Care Guide
Fraxinus Angustifolia is easy to care for and can grow in various soil types, including clay, loam, and sand. Here are some tips for caring for your Narrow-leaved Ash:
- Water: Young trees need regular watering to establish their root system. Mature trees can tolerate drought but still require occasional watering during dry spells.
- Fertilization: The tree doesn’t need frequent fertilization, but you can apply a slow-release fertilizer in spring to encourage growth.
- Soil: The tree prefers well-draining soil with a neutral pH level. If your soil is too acidic, you can add lime to raise the pH level.
- Sunlight: Fraxinus Angustifolia thrives in full sun or partial shade. It can tolerate shade but may grow slower.
- Hardiness Zones: The tree can grow in hardiness zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Fraxinus Angustifolia is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but some issues may still arise. Here are some of the common pests and diseases that affect Narrow-leaved Ash:
- Ash dieback: A fungal disease that causes leaf loss, crown dieback, and ultimately, death of the tree.
- Emerald ash borer: A beetle that feeds on the tree’s inner bark and disrupts its nutrient flow. The infestation can kill the tree.
- Verticillium wilt: A fungal disease that causes wilting, yellowing, and death of the tree’s leaves and branches.
Habitat
Fraxinus Angustifolia is native to Europe and Asia and grows in various habitats, including woodlands, riverbanks, and hillsides. The tree prefers moist soil and can tolerate periodic flooding. It is commonly used as an ornamental tree in parks and gardens and is also used for its wood in furniture making.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Fraxinus Angustifolia a good tree for urban areas?
A: Yes, Fraxinus Angustifolia is a hardy tree that can tolerate pollution and urban stress. It can grow in various soil types and doesn’t require frequent watering or fertilization.
Q: How fast does Fraxinus Angustifolia grow?
A: Fraxinus Angustifolia is a moderate to fast-growing tree that can grow up to 1 meter per year in optimal conditions.
Q: What is the difference between Fraxinus Angustifolia and Fraxinus Excelsior?
A: Fraxinus Angustifolia has narrower leaves and a smaller crown than Fraxinus Excelsior. Fraxinus Angustifolia is also more tolerant of drought and grows faster than Fraxinus Excelsior.
Q: Can you prune Fraxinus Angustifolia?
A: Yes, you can prune Fraxinus Angustifolia to maintain its shape and remove dead or damaged branches. Prune in late winter or early spring before the tree starts to grow new leaves.
Related Plants
- Fraxinus Americana
- Fraxinus Excelsior
- Fraxinus Ornus
- Fraxinus Pennsylvanica
- Fraxinus Velutina
References
- “Fraxinus angustifolia.” Plants of the World Online. Kew Science. Accessed 18 August 2021. https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:610574-1.
- “Fraxinus angustifolia.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 18 August 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a404.
- “Fraxinus angustifolia.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 18 August 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/2815/fraxinus-angustifolia/details.
