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Description
Fraxinus Texensis, commonly known as Texas Ash, is a species of ash tree that is native to Texas and some parts of Mexico. It is a deciduous tree that can grow up to a height of 50 feet and a width of 30 feet. The bark of the tree is gray and smooth when young, but becomes rough and fissured as the tree matures. The leaves are compound and have 5-7 leaflets that are dark green in color. The tree produces small, greenish-white flowers that bloom in early spring, followed by the production of winged seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Oleaceae |
| Genus | Fraxinus |
Appearance
The Texas Ash tree has a medium growth rate and can reach a height of 50 feet and a width of 30 feet. It has a rounded, symmetrical crown with a dense foliage of dark green, compound leaves that are 8-12 inches long. The leaves have 5-7 leaflets that are lanceolate and serrated. The bark of the tree is gray and smooth when young, but becomes rough and fissured as the tree matures. The tree produces small, greenish-white flowers that bloom in early spring, followed by the production of winged seeds. In the fall, the leaves turn yellow before dropping.
Care Guide
Texas Ash trees are generally easy to care for and require moderate maintenance. Here are some tips for caring for your Texas Ash:
Water: Texas Ash trees require moderate watering, especially during periods of drought. Water the tree deeply once a week, ensuring that the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization: Fertilize the tree in early spring and late fall with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing during periods of drought.
Soil: Texas Ash trees prefer well-drained soils that are slightly acidic. If your soil is heavy clay, amend it with organic matter to improve drainage.
Sunlight: Texas Ash trees prefer full sun to partial shade. They can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can lead to weak growth and increased susceptibility to pests and diseases.
Hardiness Zones: Texas Ash trees are hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Texas Ash trees are susceptible to several pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common:
Emerald Ash Borer: This invasive pest can kill Texas Ash trees by feeding on the inner bark and disrupting the tree’s ability to transport water and nutrients. Signs of infestation include D-shaped exit holes in the bark, thinning foliage, and epicormic shoots (new growth) on the trunk or branches.
Ash Anthracnose: This fungal disease can cause leaf spotting, defoliation, and dieback in Texas Ash trees. It thrives in cool, wet weather and can be prevented by pruning out infected branches and applying fungicides.
Ash Flower Gall: This gall-forming insect can cause deformed flowers and leaves in Texas Ash trees. It is not usually harmful to the tree, but can be unsightly.
Habitat
Texas Ash trees are native to Texas and some parts of Mexico. They prefer well-drained soils and can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, prairies, and riverbanks. They are commonly used as shade trees in urban and suburban landscapes.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Texas Ash trees grow in containers?
A: No, Texas Ash trees are not suitable for container growth as they require a lot of space and nutrients to grow properly.
Q: When is the best time to prune Texas Ash trees?
A: The best time to prune Texas Ash trees is in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins.
Q: How often should I water my Texas Ash tree?
A: Texas Ash trees should be watered deeply once a week during periods of drought.
Q: Are Texas Ash trees susceptible to diseases?
A: Yes, Texas Ash trees are susceptible to several diseases, including ash anthracnose and ash yellows.
Related Plants
Here are some plants that are related to Texas Ash:
- Fraxinus Americana (White Ash)
- Fraxinus Pennsylvanica (Green Ash)
- Fraxinus Velutina (Arizona Ash)
- Fraxinus Uhdei (Tropical Ash)
References
- “Fraxinus Texensis.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Accessed September 10, 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=FRTX.
- “Texas Ash.” Trees for Sale Online. Accessed September 10, 2021. https://www.treesforsaleonline.com/texas-ash/.
- “Texas Ash Tree Facts.” Home Guides. Accessed September 10, 2021. https://homeguides.sfgate.com/texas-ash-tree-52507.html.
