Fraxinus latifolia aka Oregon Ash

Taxonomy

Fraxinus latifolia, also known as the Oregon ash, is a medium-sized deciduous tree native to western North America. It can reach heights of 20 m (65 ft) to 25 m (80 ft) with a trunk diameter of 40–75 cm (16–30 in) and an average life span of 100−150 years. However, it can grow considerably larger and have a life span of over 200 years, or become stunted and small in drier habitats. The bark is dark gray–brown and develops a woven pattern of deep fissures and ridges. The compound leaves are pinnate, 12–33 cm (4 3⁄4–13 in) long, with 5–9 leaflets attached in pairs to a linear stalk and an additional leaflet at the tip. The leaves are ovate, 6–12 cm (2 1⁄4–4 3⁄4 in) long and 3–4 cm (1 1⁄8–1 5⁄8 in) broad and noticeably lighter green than those of associated broadleaf species. They turn bright yellow and fall off early in autumn. Oregon ash can be identified by its stout twigs and opposite branching arrangement and opposing buds in the fall and before it begins to leaf out. As a houseplant, Oregon ash is super rare and needs regular watering to thrive. It does best in long-lasting, direct light and should be less than 1 foot from a window. Oregon ash likes soil that is well-draining and shouldn't need added fertilizers if repotted each time it doubles in size. However, it is common for the leaves and bark to show signs of disease and brown rot on otherwise healthy plants.

Common names

Oregon Ash

How to care for Oregon Ash

Difficulty

Caring for Oregon Ash is a breeze, as it is highly adaptable and forgiving to minor neglect.

Water

Oregon Ash should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Oregon Ash loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Oregon Ash prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Toxicity

There is no verified data on the toxicity of this plant in the records of Ploi. If any person, including yourself, a family member, or a pet, consume plant material with an uncertain toxicity level, it is advisable to seek the advice of a healthcare expert.

Fertilizer

Repotting the Oregon Ash should be done either when it has doubled in size or on a yearly basis, whichever occurs sooner. Fresh potting soil with all the required nutrients, refreshed annually, will provide the plant with all the necessary sustenance, making the use of fertilizer unnecessary. Keep in mind that plants receive their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.

Region of origin

Oregon Ash’s native range is Western N. America - Washington to California.


More info:
Wikipedia