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european ash tree

The European ash tree is a graceful, fast-growing deciduous tree revered for its upright form, elegant feathered leaves, and exceptional resilience. Belonging to the Oleaceae family, the European ash is celebrated throughout Europe and New Zealand for its versatility in landscaping and shelterbelts, as well as its attractive foliage that transforms with the seasons. Whether you’re planting for shade, structure, or a touch of European classicism, the European ash tree brings both beauty and practical value to gardens, parks, and rural properties.

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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
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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...

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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...

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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...

From$432.79
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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...

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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...

From$432.79
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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Features of the European Ash Tree

A standout member of the ash family, the European ash tree (Fraxinus excelsior) typically grows to 25 metres or more, boasting a straight trunk, broad canopy, and deeply ridged bark. In spring and summer, the tree produces vivid green leaves formed from pairs of elegant leaflets that create a light, dappled shade—perfect for restful garden spots or lining wide drives. As autumn sets in, the European ash tree delights with golden yellow foliage that brings warmth to any landscape.

If you’re interested in distinctive cultivars, the Fraxinus excelsior offers the classic look, while the Fraxinus excelsior aurea provides striking golden stems, and the Fraxinus excelsior aurea pendula features a unique weeping form—each adding its own flair to formal gardens or avenues.

Planting and Growing European Ash in New Zealand

European ash trees are prized for their adaptability and fast growth, making them a reliable choice for New Zealand’s varied climates. They thrive in deep, fertile soils and prefer a sunny, sheltered location. While young saplings benefit from regular moisture, established trees are drought-tolerant and cope well with urban or rural settings. European ash trees respond well to pruning, allowing you to shape them as shade trees, windbreaks, or handsome specimens.

If you’re exploring ash tree options, you may also be interested in the hardy Fraxinus velutina, known for its resilience, or the elegant Fraxinus angustifolia, which boasts narrow leaves and a more columnar form—both excellent alternatives for shelter and screening in larger gardens.

Uses and Benefits of the European Ash Tree

Beyond its visual appeal, the European ash tree is valued for its timber, historically used in tool handles, sports equipment, and furniture due to its strength and flexibility. In the garden, it plays an important role as a habitat tree for birds and beneficial insects, promotes healthy soil through deep rooting, and is a striking specimen in formal landscapes or rural shelterbelts. Whether as a centrepiece or a companion to other deciduous trees, the European ash tree adds both ecological and ornamental value.

Find Your Ideal Ash Tree

Discover our range of ash trees, from the classic Fraxinus excelsior to unique varieties such as Fraxinus excelsior aurea, Fraxinus excelsior aurea pendula, Fraxinus velutina, and Fraxinus angustifolia. Add the timeless beauty and robust character of the European ash tree to your landscape and enjoy a focal point that will thrive for generations.


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