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Description
Fraxinus Velutina, commonly known as velvet ash or Arizona ash, is a species of ash tree native to North America. It is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 50 feet tall and 40 feet wide. The tree has a rounded crown and a short trunk with gray bark that becomes furrowed with age. The leaves are pinnately compound, with 5-9 leaflets that are 2-4 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. The leaflets are dark green on top and lighter green underneath, with a velvety texture.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Oleaceae |
| Genus | Fraxinus |
Appearance
Fraxinus Velutina has a dense canopy of dark green leaves that turn yellow in the fall. The tree produces small, inconspicuous flowers in the spring that develop into winged seeds that are dispersed by the wind. The bark of the tree is gray and becomes furrowed with age. The tree has a moderate growth rate and can live up to 100 years.
Care Guide
Fraxinus Velutina prefers well-drained soil and full sun exposure. It is drought-tolerant once established but benefits from regular watering during the first few years of growth. Fertilization is not necessary but can be beneficial in poor soil conditions. The tree is hardy in USDA zones 7-11 and can tolerate temperatures as low as 0°F. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring to avoid sap loss.
Common Pests & Diseases
Fraxinus Velutina is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including:
- Borer insects
- Ash leaf curl
- Verticillium wilt
Borer insects can cause damage to the trunk and branches of the tree, while ash leaf curl and verticillium wilt can cause leaf discoloration and premature leaf drop. Regular inspection and treatment can help prevent and control these issues.
Habitat
Fraxinus Velutina is native to North America and can be found in the southwestern United States, including Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas. It grows in a variety of habitats, including desert washes, canyons, and mountains.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Fraxinus Velutina a good shade tree?
A: Yes, Fraxinus Velutina is a good shade tree due to its dense canopy and moderate growth rate.
Q: Does Fraxinus Velutina produce fruit?
A: Fraxinus Velutina produces winged seeds that are dispersed by the wind.
Q: Is Fraxinus Velutina drought-tolerant?
A: Yes, Fraxinus Velutina is drought-tolerant once established but benefits from regular watering during the first few years of growth.
Q: Can Fraxinus Velutina tolerate cold temperatures?
A: Yes, Fraxinus Velutina is hardy in USDA zones 7-11 and can tolerate temperatures as low as 0°F.
Related Plants
- Fraxinus Americana (White Ash)
- Fraxinus Pennsylvanica (Green Ash)
- Fraxinus Quadrangulata (Blue Ash)
References
- “Fraxinus velutina.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. University of Texas at Austin, n.d. Web. 14 June 2021.
- “Fraxinus velutina.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web. 14 June 2021.
- “Fraxinus velutina.” USDA Plants Database. United States Department of Agriculture, n.d. Web. 14 June 2021.
