White Ash (American Ash)
Fraxinus americana · Oleaceae (Olive family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Pinnately compound, deciduous
Shape
Lanceolate to ovate leaflets, typically 7 leaflets per leaf
Margin
Serrate (finely toothed) to entire near the base
Arrangement
Opposite
Venation
Pinnate venation with a prominent central midrib and looping lateral veins on each leaflet
Key Features
Opposite compound leaves typically featuring 7 stalked leaflets, distinctive diamond-patterned bark on mature trees, and U-shaped leaf scars on twigs
Description
A medium to large deciduous tree featuring a straight trunk, deeply furrowed diamond-patterned bark in mature specimens, and a rounded to oval crown. Produces winged seeds known as samaras and puts on a brilliant display of autumn foliage.
Habitat
Rich, moist, well-draining soils of deciduous forests, along streams, and in upland areas; thrives in full sun to partial shade
Native Range
Native to eastern and central North America, ranging from Nova Scotia west to Minnesota, and south to Florida and Texas