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Green Ash

Fraxinus pennsylvanica

Last reviewed: June 2026

Green Ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica)
Photo: (c) Keith Kanoti, Maine Forest Service, USA, some rights reserved (CC BY)

Light

part shade

Water

medium

Size

360"–600" H × 240"–480" W

Bloom

Apr, May

Native to

AL, AR, CO, CT and 38 more states

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Green ash is a medium to large deciduous shade tree with an upright, oval crown and compound leaves that turn yellow in fall. It grows relatively quickly and tolerates a wide range of soil conditions, making it adaptable to many landscape settings. This tree produces small, inconspicuous flowers in spring before the leaves emerge.

In an HOA neighborhood

Green 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.

  • Highly susceptible to emerald ash borer which has killed millions of ash trees
  • Many municipalities now discourage planting ash trees
  • Potential for sudden tree death and removal costs

Wildlife value

The spring flowers attract bees and beetles for pollination. The seeds provide food for birds and small mammals, while the foliage supports various caterpillars and other insects.

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 Green Ash fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.