Fraxinus mandshurica

RHS Plant Profile
Manchurian ash

Other common names

Japanese ash

Trees

Large, deciduous tree reaching 30m in height, with greyish shoots and stalkless, slender dark green leaves about 40cm long composed of up to 13 leaflets, turning red and yellow in autumn. Greenish-yellow petalless flowers in compact panicles in spring may be followed by large clusters of broadly winged brownish fruits produced on last years wood (fruits not produced in Britain). Dark brown winter buds

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Clay, Chalk, Loam, Sand

Max Height

Higher than 12 metres

Max Spread

wider than 8 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
20–50 years
Max Spread
wider than 8 metres
Max Height
Higher than 12 metres

Growing Conditions

Clay Chalk Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H5

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Oleaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Spreading branched
Genus
Fraxinus are medium-sized to large, mostly deciduous trees with attractive pinnate leaves, sometimes conspicuous flowers and autumn colour, and distinctive winged fruits
Name Status
Correct
Plant Range
Far East

How to Grow

Cultivation

Excellent for woodland and coastal gardens where there is moist but well-drained alkaline or neutral soil and full sun. See tree cultivation

Propagation

Propagate by seed or grafting

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Coastal
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildlife gardens

Pruning

Pruning group 1

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Ash dieback has recently been found in the UK. Restrictions have been put in place (from 29 October 2012) regarding both the importation of ash from abroad and the movement of ash within the UK. May also be susceptible to honey fungus