White Ash (American Ash)
Fraxinus americana · Oleaceae (Olive family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Pinnately compound, deciduous
Shape
Elliptical to ovate leaflets, typically 5 to 9 per leaf, with an acuminate tip and cuneate or rounded base
Margin
Serrate (toothed) or entire (smooth) along the lower portions
Arrangement
Opposite
Venation
Pinnate venation with a prominent central midrib and looping lateral veins
Key Features
Opposite, pinnately compound leaves usually with 7 stalked leaflets, deeply furrowed bark on mature trees, and U-shaped leaf scars that touch the lateral buds
Description
White Ash is a large, stately deciduous tree known for its strong, straight wood and attractive compound foliage. The canopy provides dense shade, and the tree undergoes a dramatic purple to yellow color change in the autumn. The bark features a distinctive diamond-shaped furrowed pattern in mature specimens.
Habitat
Rich, moist, well-drained deciduous forests, often found along streams, ridges, and lower slopes with moderate to full sun exposure
Native Range
Native to eastern and central North America, ranging from Nova Scotia west to Minnesota, and south to Florida and eastern Texas