Wafer-ash
Ptelea trifoliata
Last reviewed: June 2026
Ptelea trifoliata (Wafer-ash) is a native deciduous tree found across most of the United States. It produces clusters of small white flowers from May through July that attract bees, butterflies, and beetles.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Wafer-ash as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
180"–300" H × 180"–300" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AL, AR, AZ, CO and 36 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Wafer-ash is a small native tree that grows 15-25 feet tall and wide, forming a rounded canopy. It produces clusters of small greenish-white flowers in late spring and summer, followed by distinctive papery, circular seed pods. This drought-tolerant tree adapts well to various soil conditions and provides good shade for smaller spaces.
Growing Wafer-ash
Grow Wafer-ash in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 180 to 300 inches tall and spread 180 to 300 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Wafer-ash is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
- Seed pods may be considered messy by some HOAs
Wildlife value
Host plant for Giant Swallowtail butterfly.
The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and beetles during the long blooming period from May through July. The seeds provide food for birds and small mammals.
Common questions
- Where does Ptelea trifoliata naturally grow?
- Wafer-ash is native to a broad range across the United States, from Maine to Florida and west to Colorado, New Mexico, and Arizona.
- When does Wafer-ash bloom?
- Ptelea trifoliata typically blooms from May through July, producing clusters of small, fragrant white flowers.
- What pollinators visit Wafer-ash flowers?
- The flowers attract a variety of pollinators including bees, butterflies, and beetles, making it a valuable plant for supporting local pollinator populations.
- What growing conditions does Ptelea trifoliata prefer?
- Wafer-ash tolerates full sun to partial sun and adapts well to low to medium water conditions, making it relatively drought tolerant once established.
- Is Wafer-ash toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Wafer-ash as toxic to livestock.
- Is Wafer-ash HOA-friendly?
- Wafer-ash is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
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.
Ready to grow Wafer-ash? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz