Fraxinus excelsior

RHS Plant Profile
common ash

Other common names

ache, European ash, onnen

Trees

A vigorous deciduous tree to 25m, with pale brown bark, dark green, pinnate leaves that turn yellow in autumn, and small deep purple flowers, followed by conspicuous bunches of winged fruits in late summer and autumn and black buds in winter

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Sand, Loam

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

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

Position

Full sun
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H6

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Oleaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
Yes
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
Europe Caucasus

How to Grow

Cultivation

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

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