english ash tree

Name: The Plant Company
Address: 284 Meeanee Road, Meeanee, Napier, 4112, New Zealand
Telephone: 0800 843 752
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The English ash tree is a timeless feature of both traditional and modern landscapes, admired for its graceful, open canopy and attractive compound leaves. Also known by its botanical name, Fraxinus excelsior, this classic deciduous tree is valued for its stately form, rapid growth, and exceptional versatility in New Zealand gardens. Whether you are seeking elegant shade, a feature for larger properties, or a resilient addition to an avenue or shelterbelt, the English ash tree remains a top choice. On this page, you'll discover what makes this beloved tree stand out and how to incorporate it into your outdoor space.

Fraxinus griffithii

Fraxinus griffithii (Evergreen Ash) is a fast growing evergreen tree valued for its glossy foliage and neat upright form. It is well suited to New Zealand conditions and is commonly used for shelter, screening, and feature planting. This hardy tree provides year round structure and is ideal for creating privacy or defining boundaries.

Buy Fraxinus griffithii

From $35.81

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate

Plant type: Trees

Height: 7.00 m

Spread: 4.00 m

Flowering time: Summer

Tolerances: Extended dry periods, Hardy, Wind

Garden uses: Parks, Pool areas, Screening, Specimen

Garden styles: Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern

Fraxinus pennsylvanica 'Cimmzam'

Fraxinus pennsylvanica 'Cimmzam', commonly known as Cimmzam Green Ash, is a hardy and fast growing deciduous tree valued for its symmetrical form and vibrant foliage. Native to North America, this cultivar is particularly noted for its strong central leader and resistance to harsh conditions.

Buy Fraxinus pennsylvanica 'Cimmzam'

From $511.09

Suited to regions: All regions

Plant type: Trees

Height: 10.00 m

Spread: 5.00 m

Tolerances: Hardy

Garden uses: Parks, Specimen

Garden styles: Alpine, Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern

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You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Fraxinus, or related Categories - Deciduous Trees, and Evergreen Trees. Alternatively, forage through similar ideas like european ash tree.

Search Fraxinus excelsior

Characteristics of the English Ash Tree

The English ash tree typically grows to heights of 15 to 20 metres in New Zealand conditions, forming a broad, airy crown that allows filtered sunlight to reach plants below. In spring, delicate clusters of greenish flowers appear before the new leaves emerge, followed by long, winged seeds known as "keys." The foliage breaks into fresh green leaflets each spring, turning soft yellow in autumn before leaf-fall. With its straight trunk and gracefully arching branches, the English ash tree brings a sense of structure and movement to any garden or landscape.

Planting and Care

Planting an English ash tree is straightforward, with robust roots that establish quickly in fertile, well-drained soils. The tree adapts well to a wide range of conditions, from open lawns to rural shelterbelts, and tolerates both cold winters and seasonal drought. Mulching around the base helps control weeds and retain moisture, while annual pruning ensures a clean trunk and promotes a strong branch structure.

Spacing is important – give your English ash tree plenty of room to grow, ideally planted several metres away from buildings or fences. This species appreciates full sun for maximum growth and autumn colour, though it will tolerate light shade.

Uses and Benefits

The English ash tree is more than just an attractive specimen. Its fast growth makes it ideal for establishing new landscapes, and it is commonly used in parks, reserves, and along rural driveways. Ash timber, renowned for its strength and flexibility, has long been prized for tool handles, furniture, and sports equipment. From providing cooling shade in summer to creating valuable habitat for native and introduced wildlife, this tree is an all-round asset for garden and farm alike.

Similar Ash Species

For those interested in alternative varieties or companion plantings, several related ashes are worth consideration. The classic Fraxinus excelsior is the standard English ash, available with subtle variations in leaf and bark. For an ornamental twist, the Fraxinus excelsior aurea offers vibrant golden-yellow shoots in winter, providing year-round visual interest. If you prefer a unique weeping form, the Fraxinus excelsior aurea pendula features graceful pendulous branches and golden highlights.

Other popular ash species for New Zealand gardens include Fraxinus velutina, known for its soft, downy leaves, and Fraxinus angustifolia, the narrow-leafed ash with a refined, upright appearance.

Add the English Ash Tree to Your Garden

Whether you’re establishing a new avenue, seeking farm shelter, or wanting to add a classic European element to your home landscape, the English ash tree is a proven, versatile choice. Explore your options online or reach out for expert advice on planting and care to make the most of this elegant and resilient tree.

Contact us

Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.