American Ash
Fraxinus americana
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
480"–960" H × 240"–600" W
Bloom
Apr, May
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 31 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
American ash is a large native deciduous tree with an upright, oval crown and compound leaves that turn yellow to purple in fall. It produces small, inconspicuous flowers in spring before the leaves emerge. This stately tree was once common in New England landscapes but has been severely impacted by the invasive emerald ash borer beetle.
In an HOA neighborhood
American Ash takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Extremely susceptible to emerald ash borer which has killed millions of ash trees
- May require expensive treatments or removal
- Large size inappropriate for most residential lots
Wildlife value
Host plant for spring azure, tiger swallowtail, viceroy butterfly.
The flowers attract bees and beetles in early spring. Seeds provide food for birds and small mammals, while the foliage supports various native moth and butterfly caterpillars.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does American Ash fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.