Green Ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica)

Green Ash is an excellent addition to food forests and ecological designs due to its ability to improve soil health, provide windbreaks, and offer shade for understory plants. Its resilience to a range of environmental conditions and rapid establishment make it an ideal pioneer species, supporting biodiversity and creating habitat for beneficial wildlife. The tree’s adaptability and utility underscore its value in sustainable landscape systems

Green Ash grows quickly during its early years, developing a straight trunk and a rounded canopy. Through the seasons, it leafs out in late spring, providing lush greenery, followed by clusters of winged seeds (samaras) in the summer. In the fall, its foliage transitions to a brilliant yellow before shedding for winter dormancy. Its deep root system makes it stable and drought-resistant, contributing to its reputation as a durable tree.

Size at Maturity- Grows to 15–25 meters (50–80 feet) tall with a rounded, spreading canopy

Current Size- Large 1'-2'
B grade under 1'

Green Ash is one of the most widespread ash species in North America, valued for its toughness and ability to thrive in challenging environments, including urban settings. It is a favorite for agroforestry and ecological design due to its rapid growth and utility in shelterbelts, riparian buffers, and soil stabilization. Historically, the tree's strong and flexible wood was used for tool handles, baseball bats, and furniture. Its seeds and foliage provide food and habitat for wildlife, including birds and small mammals.