Ash is unique from other trees because of the following distinctive characteristics: opposite branching and compound leaf according to the following descriptions of pictures. Remember, mountain ash (Sorbus) is not a true ash (Fraxinus), and is not affected by the Emerald Ash Borer.

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AshTrees
Ash trees (Fraxinus species) are easily identified if several simple factors are understood. Ash is
unique from other trees because of the following distinctive characteristics: opposite branching
and compound leaf according to the following descriptions of pictures. Remember, mountain ash
(Sorbus) is not a true ash (Fraxinus), and is not affected by the Emerald Ash Borer.
Ash trees also have a compound leaf. A compound leaf is one that has more
than one leaflet while the entire leaf, as defined, has a bud at its stem base
(petiole). Ash typically have approximately 5-9 leaflets per leaf.
ash-tree-barkAsh trees bear color common names such as green ash, white
ash, purple ash and blue ash. Despite the color-based names, ash trees bloom
with green leaves. Younger ash trees have relatively smooth bark but as the
tree ages the bark thickens and a diamond like pattern is noticeable. Ash
trees grow between 50 and 120 feet tall and live for a century. It produces
clusters of male and female flowers, which bloom on separate trees. The tree
develops tan key-shaped samaras (seeds), in which wind and seed-eating
animals distribute away from the parent tree. All ash tree species belong to
the genus Fraxinus.
Common insect damage: Emerald Ash borer
Common fungal disease – Anthracnose
Very few trees in our landscapes and forests have opposite branching. The predominant types are
Maple, Ash, Dogwood and Horsechestnut. A simple phrase to remember when identifying trees with
opposite branching is to use the acronym MAD HORSE, Maple, Ash, Dogwood and Horsechestnut.
When looking for opposite branching in trees, please consider that buds or limbs may die; hence not
every single branch will have an opposite mate.
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