Ash trees are common trees throughout the world. Ash is in the genus Fraxinas, in the family Oleaceae. However with the recent onslaught of the emerald ash borer in North America has made identifying ash trees very important. The beetle only attacks ash trees, but can make them dangerous and unstable. It is important to regularly check on the health of your ash trees. Basic ash tree identification is not very difficult, as long as you know what to look for.
Basic Ash Tree Identification:
- Identify an Ash Tree: A printable handout explaining the basics of identifying an ash tree
- Ash Tree Identifying Guide
- Ash Tree Indentification: Article provides basic identification guide, and ways to distinguish from other trees commonly mistaken for ash trees
- Identify the Different Types of Ash: Learn which type of ash trip you have
One of the characteristics of an ash tree is that the twigs run opposite of each other. The leaves come in groups or compounds with the leaves starting out directly across from each other. Generally there are between five to eleven leaves in a leaf compound. The leaves are smooth, or have very fine teeth. They are not jagged. The leaves are generally eight to twelve inches in length.
The seeds of ash trees are also referred to as helicopter seeds. They are found on the plants in large groups. The leaves are also referred to as key seeds and carry a fruit known as samara. Pictures can help you to identify the specific characteristics of the ash tree.
Pictures and Handouts to Help with Ash Tree Identification:
- Ash Tree Pictures: Various pictures of full grown ash trees and identifying guide
- Ash Tree Handout: Printable handout with picture to help you identify an ash tree
- Tree Identifying Guide: Pamphlet that helps you identify several types of trees
If you are trying to identify a dormant ash tree you should look at the leaf scars. The scars will look like a shield or a smiley face. Additionally the branches are usually shaped like a pitchfork. The bark in younger trees is very smooth, but in older trees it is much rougher, but the grooves are close together.
Ash Tree Videos and Information:
- How to Identify trees: Video on how to identify common trees
- Ash Tree Identification Video: Video on specifically identifying an ash tree
- Ash Tree Information: Learn more characteristics and information on the different types of ash trees
