Green Ash
Fraxinus pennsylvanica · Oleaceae (Olive family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Compound (pinnately compound, typically with 5 to 9 leaflets), deciduous
Shape
Lanceolate to ovate with an acuminate (tapering to a long point) apex and cuneate base
Margin
Serrate (finely toothed) along the middle to upper portion, sometimes entire near the base
Arrangement
Opposite arrangement on the twig, characteristic of the Oleaceae family
Venation
Pinnate venation with a prominent, pale central midrib and a clearly defined net-like (reticulate) secondary vein network
Key Features
Opposite, pinnately compound leaves; finely toothed leaflet margins; distinctive diamond-furrowed bark on mature trees; and U-shaped leaf scars on the twigs
Description
Green Ash is a medium to large deciduous tree known for its upright, rounded crown and strong, spreading branches. The bark on mature trees is grey-to-brown with a distinct, deeply furrowed, diamond-shaped pattern. It produces inconspicuous wind-pollinated flowers in spring followed by single-winged samaras (keys) that are dispersed by wind.
Habitat
Found primarily in moist bottomlands, riparian zones, along streams, and in wet forests, though it is remarkably adaptable and tolerates urban pollution and dry soils
Native Range
Native to eastern and central North America, stretching from Nova Scotia west to Alberta, and south to Florida and Texas; widely planted as an urban shade tree