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small ash tree

A small ash tree is a perfect choice for New Zealand gardens seeking elegance and manageable scale. While many ash trees can become towering giants, some cultivars, like Fraxinus Annesbrook, offer the beauty and benefits of ashes in a compact form. Whether you want structured shade, autumn colour, or a resilient landscape feature that won’t overpower your space, exploring small ash trees ensures your garden meets both aesthetic tastes and practical needs.

Acer 'Shaina' small and round trees with elegant, dark red-purple foliage.

Acer palmatum 'Shaina'

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Acer palmatum 'Shaina' is a compact Japanese maple prized for its intense crimson red foliage and naturally tidy upright habit. This deciduous tree performs exceptionally well in New Zealand gardens and is ideal for feature planting in small spaces. Its rich colour holds well through spring and summer before deepening further in autumn.

From $299.95

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Trees
Height: 2.00 m
Spread: 2.00 m
Tolerances: Hardy
Garden uses: Containers, Living areas, Parks, Ponds, Specimen
Garden styles: Alpine, Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern
Acer 'Mikawa Yatsubusa' specimen tree with lush, green foliage.

Acer palmatum 'Mikawa Yatsubusa'

Acer palmatum 'Mikawa Yatsubusa' is a sought-after dwarf Japanese Maple prized for its dense, layered foliage and elegant form. Its small, overlapping green leaves create a unique, architectural appearance that turns fiery shades of red and orange in autumn.

From $299.95

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Trees
Height: 1.50 m
Spread: 1.00 m
Garden uses: Containers, Living areas, Parks, Specimen
Garden styles: Alpine, Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Rock
fuscospora-solandri-
Fuscospora solandri

Fuscospora solandri (Black Beech) is a distinctive New Zealand native evergreen tree valued for its fine foliage, dense canopy, and strong natural...

From$270.40
Dacrydium cupressinum (Rimu) tree juvenile foliage.
Dacrydium cupressinum (Rimu Tree)

Dacrydium cupressinum, commonly known as Rimu or Red Pine, is an iconic and slow-growing tree. The juvenile form features drooping branches densely...

From$99.29
Acer palmatum 'Fireglow' bright red foliage.
Acer 'Fireglow'

Acer 'Fireglow' is a striking Japanese maple prized for its brilliant deep red foliage that holds colour exceptionally well throughout the season...

From$349.95
fraxinus-ornus-2
Fraxinus ornus

Fraxinus ornus (Flowering Ash) is an elegant deciduous tree admired for its fragrant creamy white flower clusters that appear in late spring and...

From$387.55
A Parrotia persica (Persian Ironwood) specimen tree with colourful, orange foliage in autumn.
Parrotia persica

Parrotia persica, commonly known as the Persian Ironwood Tree, is a small tree grown for its fantastic autumn colours. The foliage emerges light...

From$192.51
An Acer 'Katsura' specimen tree with orange and green foliage.
Acer 'Katsura'

Acer 'Katsura' is a stunning Japanese maple known for its brilliant apricot orange spring foliage that matures to fresh green before turning vibrant...

From$299.95
fraxinus-raywoodii-5
Fraxinus 'Raywoodii'

Fraxinus 'Raywoodii' (Claret Ash) is a magnificent deciduous tree admired for its lush green foliage that transforms into spectacular deep claret and...

From$387.55
fraxinus-griffithii-3
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...

From$35.81
Elegant Michelia 'Bubbles' admisdt lush, green foliage.
Michelia 'Bubbles'

Michelia ‘Bubbles’ is a striking evergreen shrub or small tree valued for its glossy green foliage and masses of creamy white, fragrant flowers that...

From$41.33
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$511.09
Acer 'Armstrong' bright red foliage.
Acer 'Armstrong'

Acer 'Armstrong' is a distinctive Maple grown for its narrow, upright growth habit and fabulous autumn colours. This fast-growing tree produces a...

From$299.95
A Liquidambar 'Gumball' tree with fabulous autumn colours.
Liquidambar styraciflua 'Gumball'

Liquidambar 'Gumball' is a small tree grown for its form and fantastic autumn colours. This popular ornamental tree features leaves that emerge lime...

From$387.55
ulmus-lobel-
Ulmus 'Lobel' (Dutch Elm Tree)

Ulmus 'Lobel' is a refined deciduous elm valued for its narrow upright form, dense green foliage, and excellent suitability as an avenue or specimen...

From$557.95
pb-three-quarter-planter-bags-
Planter Bags 3/4 (Seedling Bags)

PB 3/4 Planter Bags are a practical option for growing and establishing small plants, seedlings, shrubs, and young trees. Made for nursery and...

From$15.47
A Michelia 'Fairy Cream' hedge with masses of cream-white flowers and glossy, green foliage.
Michelia 'Fairy Cream'

Michelia 'Fairy Cream' grows as a small and shapely tree carrying glossy, green leaves which are attractive in their own right. Velvet buds are borne...

From$136.04
Tabebuia rosea tree with masses of pink flowers.
Tabebuia rosea (Pink Poui)

Tabebuia rosea is a spectacular flowering tree admired for its masses of soft pink trumpet shaped blooms that appear before the foliage in spring...

From$65.55
Aristotelia serrata (Wineberry) tree with masses of black berries.
Aristotelia serrata (Wineberry)

Aristotelia serrata, commonly known as Wineberry or Makomako, is a fast-growing, deciduous native tree of New Zealand. It features serrated green...

From$22.01
Pittosporum eugenioides tree with lush, dark green foliage and cream-coloured flowers.
Pittosporum eugenioides (Tarata)

Pittosporum eugenioides, commonly known as Tarata or Lemonwood, is a fast-growing native New Zealand tree valued for its glossy green leaves and...

From$15.04
Laurelia novae-zelandiae

Laurelia novae-zelandiae, commonly known as Pukatea, is a magnificent NZ native tree admired for its glossy green leaves, fluted trunk, and...

From$589.90
Hedycarya arborea tree with lush green foliage.
Hedycarya arborea

Hedycarya arborea, commonly known as Pigeonwood, is a New Zealand native tree valued for its attractive foliage and wildlife benefits. This evergreen...

From$494.05
Melia azedarach tree.
Melia azedarach (Bead Tree)

Melia azedarach (Bead Tree, White Cedar) is a graceful deciduous tree valued for its attractive fern like foliage, fragrant clusters of lilac...

From$387.55
A Kunzea robusta shrub with masses of pretty, white flowers.
Kunzea robusta

Kunzea robusta (White Tea Tree) is a fast growing NZ native tree known for its fine foliage and masses of small white flowers that attract bees and...

From$8.97
prunus-autumnalis-rosea-6
Prunus autumnalis 'Rosea'

Prunus autumnalis 'Rosea' is an attractive deciduous flowering tree valued for its delicate pink blossoms and unusually long flowering season. Small...

From$399.95
Sophora microphylla specimen tree covered in yellow flowers.
Sophora microphylla (Small Leaved Kōwhai)

Sophora microphylla, commonly known as Weeping Kowhai, is a treasured New Zealand native tree admired for its graceful, drooping branches and masses...

From$28.91
azara-microphylla-2
Azara microphylla

Azara microphylla (Vanilla Tree) is a graceful evergreen tree admired for its small glossy leaves and wonderfully fragrant yellow flowers. In spring...

From$387.55
Liriodendron tulipifera 'Fastigiata' trees with yellow foliage in autumn.
Liriodendron tulipifera 'Fastigiata' (Tulip Tree)

Liriodendron tulipifera fastigiata, also known as the Upright Tulip Tree, is a stunning deciduous tree admired for its narrow, columnar form. It...

From$515.35
malus-floribunda-
Malus floribunda

Malus floribunda, commonly known as the Japanese Crabapple, is a beautiful deciduous ornamental tree renowned for its profusion of pink buds that...

From$515.35
Quercus robur 'Fastigiata' specimen trees.
Quercus robur 'Fastigiata'

Quercus robur 'Fastigiata', commonly known as the English Columnar Oak or Cypress Oak, is a deciduous tree with lovely foliage and great form. This...

From$279.95
tilia-cordata-1
Tilia cordata

Tilia cordata (Small Leaved Lime) is a majestic deciduous tree admired for its symmetrical form, heart shaped green leaves, and highly fragrant pale...

From$515.35
tree-and-shrub-fertiliser-
Tree Fertiliser (Tree Fertiliser)

Using tree fertiliser results in plants having better quality foliage, more profuse flowering, stronger stems, and a much healthier and brighter...

From$16.95
Acer palmatum 'Shaina'

Did you find what you are looking for?

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

Search small ash tree

Why Choose a Small Ash Tree for Your Garden?

Small ash trees provide all the grace and ornamental qualities of classic ash varieties but maintain a size suitable for smaller gardens, courtyards, and urban landscapes. Their well-branched structure, attractive foliage, and impressive seasonal changes make them a firm favourite for gardeners wanting interest throughout the year.

One standout option for those seeking a small ash tree is Fraxinus Annesbrook. This specially selected variety boasts a more restrained growth habit than traditional species, making it ideal where space is at a premium. Its finely divided leaves, pale bark, and vibrant autumn hues ensure it’s a focal point from spring through autumn.

Notable Alternatives to Small Ash Trees

While searching for a small ash tree, you might also wish to explore related species that offer a similar form, structure, or beauty. If you appreciate the delicate, lacy look and manageable size, consider the Elaeocarpus reticulatus Prima Donna (Blueberry Ash). Despite its common name, this tree is not a true ash, but it's highly valued for its compact size, glossy foliage, and beautiful pink flowers followed by blue berries.

Another excellent alternative is the Sorbus aucuparia Scarlet King (Rowan Tree NZ), which displays vibrant red berries and orange-gold autumn colours. It’s appreciated for its smaller stature and tolerance of New Zealand conditions, making it a reliable option for anyone looking for a small, decorative tree.

Compact Trees for Every Garden Style

If you’re open to exploring beyond the ash family, you’ll find plenty of compact ornamentals to suit any garden theme. Choose a sophisticated Magnolia liliiflora Nigra (Magnolia Tree Nigra) for its deep purple blooms, or the Magnolia Deryk (Magnolia Tree Deryk) for an abundance of rich pink flowers each spring. Magnolias are prized for their manageable heights, elegant shapes, and ability to thrive in well-chosen locations.

Plant a Small Ash Tree—Add Structure and Seasonal Beauty

Whether you’re updating an existing garden or starting fresh, a small ash tree like Fraxinus Annesbrook brings year-round interest without overwhelming your space. Ash and ash-like trees are low-maintenance, robust, and versatile, adapting to many New Zealand climates. To complement your small ash tree, consider pairing it with other compact specimens such as Elaeocarpus reticulatus Prima Donna (Blueberry Ash) or the striking Sorbus aucuparia Scarlet King (Rowan Tree NZ).

Explore our full range to find the ideal tree tailored to your garden and enjoy the enduring appeal of a small ash tree in your landscape.

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.

Illustration of plant leaves.
While Arthropodium cirratum (Rengarenga Lily) and Griselinia 'Broadway Mint' often steal the spotlight, charming plants like Rhaphiolepis 'Cosmic White', Grevillea 'Bronze Rambler', and Escallonia 'Red Knight' quietly shine in any garden.
–The Plant Company

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