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 5 to 9 leaflets per leaf
Margin
Finely serrate to entire
Arrangement
Opposite
Venation
Pinnate venation with a prominent central midrib on each leaflet
Key Features
Opposite, pinnately compound leaves with 5 to 9 stalked leaflets; distinctive diamond-furrowed bark on mature trees; U-shaped leaf scars on twigs.
Description
A medium to large deciduous tree featuring a straight trunk with ridged, diamond-patterned bark. The compound leaves create a lush canopy, turning striking shades of purple and gold in the fall.
Habitat
Rich, moist, well-drained soils of deciduous forests, along streams, and in upland areas. Prefers full sun to partial shade.
Native Range
Native to eastern and central North America, from Nova Scotia west to Minnesota, and south to northern Florida and eastern Texas.