Fraxinus americana aka White Ash

Fraxinus americana, commonly known as the white ash or American ash, is a deciduous tree native to eastern and central North America. It can be found in mesophytic hardwood forests spanning from Nova Scotia to Minnesota, and from northern Florida to eastern Texas. Isolated populations have also been discovered in western Texas, Wyoming, and Colorado, with reports of naturalization in Hawaii. This species is the largest among native ash trees, reaching heights of 60-80 feet. Its young trees have a pyramidal shape that gradually transitions to a rounded crown as they mature. The leaves consist of seven, nine, or rarely five oval to oblong leaflets that are dark green on the upper side and whitish-green on the lower side. During autumn, the leaves transform into vibrant shades of red, purple, orange, and yellow. In spring, inconspicuous green flowers bloom. The gray bark of mature trees develops distinctive ridging. White ash is primarily dioecious, with separate male and female trees. It produces clusters of purplish male and female flowers on different trees in April-May, preceding the emergence of foliage. Fertilized female flowers give way to drooping clusters of winged samaras that ripen in fall and may persist throughout winter. This species is highly valued for its timber, which is used in the production of various products such as tool handles, oars, garden furniture, and sports equipment. It is also the wood of choice for Louisville Slugger baseball bats. Overall, Fraxinus americana is an iconic tree known for its beauty, ecological importance, and commercial value.