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english ash tree

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.

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Fraxinus excelsior

Fraxinus excelsior, commonly known as the European Ash or Common Ash, is a large and stately, deciduous tree grown for its rich and colourful foliage. This deciduous tree grows quickly and produces dark green leaves which develop yellow tones in autumn before falling. It grows with a dense and rounded crown to about 25 m tall and 15 m wide. Fraxinus excelsior is commonly used as a specimen in a large garden or park, grown as a shade tree, or included in a mixed planting in a large garden.

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Trees
Height: 25.00 m
Spread: 15.00 m
Flowering time: Summer
Tolerances: Coastal, Hardy
Garden uses: Parks, Specimen
Garden styles: Alpine, Coastal, Japanese, Mediterranean
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Fraxinus excelsior aurea

Fraxinus excelsior aurea, commonly known as the Golden Ash tree, is a large and stately, deciduous tree. The leaves emerge light green-yellow in spring, age to become mid-green during summer, then turn golden yellow in autumn before falling. It grows initially with a somewhat narrow habit and tends to broaden as it matures, eventually reaching 20 m tall and 12 m wide. Fraxinus excelsior aurea is commonly grown as a specimen in a large garden or park, planted for summer shade, or included in a mixed planting in a large garden.

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Trees
Height: 20.00 m
Spread: 12.00 m
Tolerances: Coastal, Hardy
Garden uses: Parks, Specimen
Garden styles: Alpine, Coastal
fraxinus-ornus-2

Fraxinus ornus

Fraxinus ornus, commonly known as the Flowering Ash, is a deciduous and rounded tree grown for both its foliage and flowering. Showy clusters of...

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A lush Fraxinus cimmzam specimen tree.

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...

From$432.79
fraxinus-purple-spire-2

Fraxinus Purple Spire

Fraxinus Purple Spire is a popular variety of the commonly known, Claret Ash, and is grown for its impressive form and brilliant autumn colours. It...

From$343.89
fraxinus-raywoodii-5

Fraxinus Raywoodii

Fraxinus Raywoodii, commonly known as Claret Ash or Red Ash, is an impressive variety that features great form and brilliant autumn colours. The...

From$299.92
fraxinus-green-glow-

Fraxinus Green Glow

Fraxinus Green Glow is a variety of Ash grown for its rich and colourful foliage. This deciduous tree produces dense and lush, bright green foliage...

fraxinus-griffithii-3

Fraxinus griffithii (Evergreen Ash)

Fraxinus griffithii is a standout choice for New Zealand gardens. Fraxinus griffithii, commonly known as the Evergreen Ash tree, is an attractive...

From$299.92
fraxinus-annesbrook-

Fraxinus Annesbrook

Fraxinus Annesbrook is a variety of Ash grown for its rich and colourful foliage. This deciduous tree grows quickly and produces dark green leaves...

Fraxinus excelsior

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You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Fraxinus, or related Categories - Deciduous Trees and Evergreen Trees.

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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.


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