Red Ash, Green ash, Water Ash

Fraxinus pennsylvanica

Physical Characteristics

Fraxinus pennsylvanica is a deciduous Tree growing to 20 m (65ft) by 20 m (65ft) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4. It is in flower in May, and the seeds ripen in October. The species is dioecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required). and is pollinated by Wind. The plant is not self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil. The plant can tolerates strong winds but not maritime exposure. It can tolerate atmospheric pollution.

Distribution

Eastern N. America - Nova Scotia to Alberta, south to Florida and Texas.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Canopy;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Inner bark Edible Uses: Inner bark - cooked[105, 161, 177]. The cambium layer can be scraped down in long, fluffy layers and cooked[257]. It is said to taste like eggs[257]. Inner bark can also be dried, ground into a powder and then used as a thickening in soups etc or mixed with cereals when making bread.

Medicinal Uses

Bitter Diuretic Tonic The bark and leaves are a bitter tonic[4, 61]. An infusion of the inner bark has been used in the treatment of depression and fatigue[257]. The root is diuretic[4].

Known Hazards

None known