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Description
Fraxinus Gooddingii, commonly known as Goodding’s ash or velvet ash, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the olive family. Native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, this tree can grow up to 50 feet tall with a trunk diameter of up to 3 feet. It has a broad, spreading crown with a rounded shape.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Oleaceae |
| Genus | Fraxinus |
Appearance
Fraxinus Gooddingii has a smooth, gray bark that becomes fissured as the tree ages. The leaves are compound, with 5-9 leaflets that are lanceolate in shape and up to 5 inches long. The leaflets are dark green and glossy on top, while the underside is covered in fine hairs, giving them a velvety texture. In the fall, the leaves turn yellow before dropping.The tree produces clusters of small, greenish-yellow flowers in the spring, which are followed by winged seeds that ripen in the fall. The seeds are about 1 inch long and have a papery wing that helps them disperse in the wind.
Care Guide
Fraxinus Gooddingii prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun, although it can tolerate some shade. It is drought-tolerant once established, but regular watering during the first few years of growth will help it establish a strong root system. Fertilize in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.This tree is hardy in USDA zones 7-9, which means it can tolerate temperatures as low as 0 degrees Fahrenheit. It can be propagated from seed or cuttings.
Common Pests & Diseases
Fraxinus Gooddingii is susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, including ash yellows, ash anthracnose, and verticillium wilt. It is also vulnerable to attacks from ash borers and scales, which can weaken or kill the tree. Regular inspection and prompt treatment can help prevent these problems.
Habitat
Fraxinus Gooddingii is native to riparian areas and floodplains in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It is often found near rivers and streams, where it can thrive in moist soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Fraxinus Gooddingii a good shade tree?
A: Yes, Fraxinus Gooddingii has a broad, spreading crown that makes it an excellent shade tree.
Q: Can Fraxinus Gooddingii tolerate drought?
A: Yes, Fraxinus Gooddingii is drought-tolerant once established, but regular watering during the first few years of growth will help it establish a strong root system.
Q: How can I propagate Fraxinus Gooddingii?
A: Fraxinus Gooddingii can be propagated from seed or cuttings.
Q: What pests and diseases should I watch out for?
A: Fraxinus Gooddingii is susceptible to ash yellows, ash anthracnose, verticillium wilt, ash borers, and scales.
Related Plants
- Fraxinus americana (white ash)
- Fraxinus pennsylvanica (green ash)
- Fraxinus velutina (Arizona ash)
References
- USDA Plants Database: Fraxinus Gooddingii
- University of Arizona Cooperative Extension: Fraxinus Gooddingii
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Fraxinus Gooddingii
