Fraxinus velutina

Arizona Ash

OVERVIEW:

The Arizona Ash, Faxinus velutina, are slightly smaller than the shamel ash reaching heights of 40-50 feet with a spread of 30-40 feet. Light green laves accented against light grey bark make this tree a fit in even the most desert of landscapes; The Arizona ash is sometime called the desert ash. As the tree matures, its bark tends to become darker, rougher, and more textural giving it some character lacking in other shade trees. The Arizona ash is deciduous, its leaves turning a bright yellow, almost gold color in the late fall or early winter. While deciduous tress can be considered messy, they provide a dual purpose in the landscape. In the spring and summer months, their canopy provides much needed shade from the heat of sun. During the fall and winter months, their lack of leaves allows for light to pass through providing natural warmth their surroundings.

CLASSIFICATION:

Scientific Name: Fraxinus velutina

Common Name: Arizona Ash

Family: Fraxinus

Suggested Uses: Shade tree, featured specimen

CHARACTERISTICS:

Height: 35-40ft

Foliage: green, medium-length oval leaves

Flower: white, puffy balls in the late winter/early spring

Bloom Period: late winter - early spring

Fruit: n/a

Bark: smooth, textured bark

ENVIRONMENT:

Sun: Full sun

Water: Moderate

Soil: well-draining, yet fertile soil (great for flood irrigation)

USDA Zone: 6-9