Fraxinus

Fraxinus excelsior and Claret Ash – Best Trees In NZ!

Growing colourful trees in your garden such as Fraxinus excelsior or Claret Ash delivers a vast range of benefits:

• They are visual plants that add impact to a space.
• They attract birds and bees.
• Street appeal can be greatly enhanced.
• They can provide shelter and screening.
• Children can learn the plants and become more involved with nature.
• These plants will bring you pleasure for many years.

We have the largest variety of Fraxinus trees and the right one for your space. Our Ash trees have been selected to thrive in NZ’s climate. We grow and stock only the highest quality plants, sourcing them locally, and from NZ’s leading nurseries. Each plant is packed and transported with extreme care, ensuring it arrives to you in the same condition it was in when it left the nursery. If you are wanting to buy Fraxinus trees, shop with confidence from the best in the industry.

Fraxinus Questions

1. What is the English name for Fraxinus?

The English name for Fraxinus is ash. Fraxinus is a genus of flowering plants in the olive and lilac family, Oleaceae, and comprises 45–65 species of usually medium-to-large trees, most of which are deciduous trees, although some subtropical species are evergreen trees. The genus is widespread throughout much of Europe, Asia, and North America.

Ash trees are prized for their hardwood, which is often used in tools and sport handles, or furniture. Ash trees are also popular ornamental trees, due to their attractive foliage and bark.

Some common species of ash trees include:

• European ash (Fraxinus excelsior)
• American ash (Fraxinus americana)
• Green ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica)
• White ash (Fraxinus americana)
• Black ash (Fraxinus nigra)

2. What is the fastest growing ash tree?

The fastest growing ash tree is the Shamel ash, also known as the evergreen ash (Fraxinus uhdei). It is a native of Mexico and can grow up to 18 m tall and wide in just 20 years. It has a dense canopy of glossy green leaves and can tolerate a wide range of conditions, including heat, drought, and poor soil.

Other fast-growing ash trees include:

• Green ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica): This tree can grow up to 20 m tall in 20 years.
• White ash (Fraxinus americana): This tree can grow up to 25 m tall in 20 years.
• Black ash (Fraxinus nigra): This tree can grow up to 20 m tall in 20 years.

It is important to note that the growth rate of any tree will be affected by a number of factors, including soil conditions, climate, and watering. If you are looking for the fastest growing ash tree, it is important to choose a variety that is well-suited to your climate and to plant it in a sunny spot with well-drained soil.

3. What is the lifespan of an ash tree?

Ash trees have a long lifespan, ranging from 50 to 150 years. Some ash trees have been known to live for over 200 years. However, the lifespan of an ash tree will depend on a number of factors, including the species of ash tree, the climate, the growing conditions, and the presence of pests and diseases.

4. Where is the best place to plant ash trees?

The best place to plant ash trees is in a sunny spot with a well-drained soil. They are relatively tolerant of a wide range of soil conditions, but they will grow best in soil that is moist but not sodden. They are also relatively tolerant of urban air pollution.

Here are some specific tips for choosing a good location to plant an ash tree:

• Avoid planting ash trees where they might end up with wet feet.
• Ensure the site does not have strong winds which can break brittle branches.
• Avoid planting them near overhead utilities as they can grow quite tall.
• Avoid planting them too close to buildings or other structures to avoid the root system damaging foundations and other structures.

When planting an ash tree, it is important to dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball of the tree. The hole should also be deep enough so that the root ball is level with the ground. Backfill the hole with soil and firm it down gently to remove any air pockets. Water the tree deeply after planting and stake the tree to ensure it is stable.

5. Should ash trees be pruned?

Ash trees should be pruned to help control the size and shape of the tree. Remove dead or diseased branches during this process. They can be pruned at any time of year, but it is best to prune them in the late winter or early spring, when the tree is dormant.

6. Where is Fraxinus native to?

Fraxinus, commonly known as ash, is a genus of flowering plants in the olive family Oleaceae. There are about 60 species of ash trees native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere and a few in the mountains of tropical Asia. The name Fraxinus comes from the Latin word for "ash."

7. What are the benefits of Fraxinus?

Ash trees are known for their strong, hard wood, which has been used for centuries for making furniture, tools, and weapons. Ash is also a popular choice for firewood because it burns hot and clean. In addition to its practical uses, ash trees are also valued for their ornamental beauty. They have graceful, feathery leaves, and some species produce clusters of small, fragrant flowers.

Here are some of the benefits of Fraxinus:

• Strong, hard wood: Ash wood is one of the strongest and hardest hardwoods available. This makes it ideal for making furniture, tools, and weapons that need to be able to withstand heavy use. Ash wood is also very flexible, making it a good choice for making bows and other athletic equipment.
• Firewood: Ash is a popular choice for firewood because it burns hot and clean. Ash wood also dries quickly and easily, making it a good choice for people who live in cold climates.
• Ornamental value: Ash trees are beautiful trees that can add a touch of elegance to any landscape. They have graceful, feathery leaves that turn golden yellow in the fall. Some species of ash trees also produce clusters of small, fragrant flowers in the spring.
• Habitat: Ash trees provide important habitat for a variety of wildlife, including birds, squirrels, and rabbits. The leaves and fruits of ash trees are a food source for many animals, and the hollow trunks of old ash trees provide nesting sites for birds.
• Soil health: Ash trees can help to improve soil health by fixing nitrogen in the soil. This can be beneficial for other plants that grow near ash trees.

8. What is the medicinal use of ash tree?

The ash tree (Fraxinus) has a long history of medicinal use, dating back to ancient times. Different parts of the tree, including the bark, leaves, and seeds, have been used to treat a variety of ailments. Here's a breakdown of the medicinal uses of ash tree:

Bark:

• Pain relief: Ash bark contains compounds with anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making it useful for treating pain associated with arthritis, gout, and rheumatism.
• Diuretic: Ash bark acts as a diuretic, helping to increase urine production and remove excess fluid from the body. This can be beneficial for people with conditions like high blood pressure, oedema, and kidney stones.
• Fever reducer: Ash bark has traditionally been used to reduce fever and treat ailments like malaria and typhoid.

Leaves:

• Laxative: Ash leaves have a laxative effect due to the presence of anthraquinones. They can be used to treat constipation and digestive problems.
• Diuretic and blood sugar control: Like the bark, ash leaves possess diuretic properties and might help regulate blood sugar levels.

Seeds:

• Aphrodisiac: Traditionally, ash seeds were used as an aphrodisiac, although scientific evidence for this use is limited.
• Diuretic and appetite stimulant: Ash seeds also have diuretic properties and might stimulate appetite.

It's important to note that:

• The medicinal use of ash tree should be done with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Some parts of the tree, such as the fruit, can be toxic if ingested.
• Ash tree can interact with certain medications, so it's crucial to disclose any medication use before consuming ash-based remedies.
• Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid using ash tree due to potential safety concerns.

Additionally:

• Research on the medicinal properties of ash tree is ongoing, and more studies are needed to confirm its effectiveness for various conditions.
• Always prioritize conventional medical treatment for serious health issues and use herbal remedies as complementary support when appropriate.

Remember, while the ash tree offers potential medicinal benefits, responsible and informed use is key. Consult your doctor before incorporating any ash-based remedies into your healthcare routine.