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| Leaf; Photo: MNR |
Bark; Photo: MNR |
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| Fruit; Photo: MNR |
Tree; Photo: Jim Dellinger |
This tree is also called basket ash, as it was used by some Aboriginal people to make baskets.
The black ash grows everywhere in Ontario except the Far North. It is one of the last trees to leaf in the spring, and among the first to turn yellow and drop leaves in the fall.
A smaller tree with a narrow crown, it has light grey bark that is soft and cork-like when young, becoming scaly with age. Oval leaflets on a central stalk are deep green and hairless. Full leaves, as opposed to single leaflets, tend to drop in the fall.
These trees love moisture, and are commonly found in northern swampy woodlands, from eastern Manitoba, throughout Ontario, and as far east as Newfoundland. The Emerald Ash Borer is currently threatening the species across its entire range.
Size: Up to 20 metres tall
Moisture: grows in wet areas
Shade: intolerant of shade
Soil: prefers rich soils
Planting Tip: Use compost fertilizer to increase the speed of growth in Black Ash trees. More tips...
