Click on image for full screen view.

Arizona Ash, Modesto Ash, Desert Ash, Leatherleaf Ash, Smooth Ash, Toumey Ash, Fresno, Standley Ash
Fraxinus velutina

Oleaceae

Arizona ash or velvet ash grows in high mountains and cool canyons, along streams, rivers and moist washes in west Texas. It can grow on either limestone or igneous soils. The foliage is very fine textured for an ash. Fall color is brown to yellow. Because it grows rapidly, is drought tolerant and is easily raised from seed, it has been widely planted in the state, but it is decimated by borers in the summer, and therefore is a very poor long-term choice for Texas landscapes.

Plant Habit or Use: medium tree large tree

Exposure: sun

Flower Color: green

Blooming Period: spring

Fruit Characteristics: small woody samara in 6" panicles, can be very profusely borne and a maintenance liability

Height: 20 to 85 ft.

Width: 25 to 40 ft.

Plant Character: deciduous

Heat Tolerance: very high

Water Requirements: low

Soil Requirements: adaptable

USDA Hardiness Zone: 7

Additional Comments:



Index of Scientific Names | Index of Common Names | Photo Gallery Index