Oregon Ash • Fraxinus latifolia
Growth Habit and Environment
Commonly found in wetland areas such as riverbanks, floodplains, and swamps, Oregon Ash is a tree commonly used to produce goods like furniture, flooring, and tool handles due to its sturdy grain and strength. It grows up to 80 feet tall, with a dense crown that will reach out between 30 and 40 feet. In Europe, Oregon Ash is a valued ornamental shade tree. It will live around 250 years, and has a moderately rapid growth rate at about 1 to 2 feet per year.
Seasonal Cycle
As spring warms up the soil and air in April and May, small, barely noticeable flowers will emerge from swelling buds followed closely by new leaves. At around 30 years old, trees will start to produce seeds in a form called a samara. In October these seeds will have turned brown and will be swept away with the wind to find a place to germinate.
Summer brings seasonal growth in the amount of 1 to 2 feet annually. Though the crown may be more narrow than many species of tree, the dense canopy provides ample shade through the warm summer months.
As with any deciduous tree, fall brings an end to the growing season, and leaves will start to turn a golden yellow before falling off the branches. Seeds, contained in their samaras, will also be released from their branches, falling both near and far, depending on where the wind takes them.
Planting Tips
Oregon Ash can grow just about anywhere there's access to water, and even in places where water is in excess. While it will pull through the rain-free summer months without any supplemental water, these trees do best when there is a constant supply nearby. It will tolerate seasonal flooding better than any other deciduous tree in our nursery.
Oregon Ash likes acidic to neutral soil, ranging between 4.7 to 7 on the pH scale. Plant in areas rich with humus (another fancy word for organic matter) to give it a boost. Roots are shallow and spread wide, so it is important not to plant Oregon Ash next to structures, sidewalks or other such landscaping features.
Young trees will grow fairly well in shade, however it is best to give them a mix, with shade in the afternoons when it is hottest.
Transform Your Outdoor Spaces
At Oregon Tree & Vine, we believe that beautiful gardens can transform any outdoor space. Our wide selection of native plants with their vibrant flowers, edible fruits, and lush foliage, will help you create the garden of your dreams. We are committed to providing our customers with the highest quality plants and exceptional service.
