Common Name: Green Ash
Scientific Name: Fraxinus pennsylvanica
Location: Kirk Memorial
Identifying Features
Ash leaves are divided into 5-9 leaflets and they occur in pairs along the stem. Female trees produce elongate winged fruits in the fall and male trees produce clusters of pollen-producing flowers in spring.
Distribution/Geography
Green ash is distributed throughout the east and midwest of the United States.
Uses
Green ash wood is hard and strong. Tool handles and baseball bats are made from green ash, as well as interior finishing. It is often planted as an ornamental because of its tolerance to a wide range of soil conditions, its beauty, and its resistance to insect pests and disease.
History
The green ash has also been called red ash, swamp ash and water ash. It has replaced the white ash as the wood most oars and canoe paddles are made of.
Fun Fact
Though showing signs of emerald ash borer, this big tree has found the strength to fight off the infestation over the last three years. This national champion is one of the oldest trees on Michigan’s state register.