Ash (Fraxinus Excelsior)

This magnificent large deciduous tree can grow to the height of 45m and live for up to 200 years.

Identifying features: Distinctive black buds appear in spring. Ash trees produce a pale, creamy wood that is strong and elastic.

In the North of England it was thought that by a woman placing an Ash leaf in the left shoe, she would be fortunate enough to meet her future spouse immediately.

In a traditional English verse, Ash was held to have the power to reveal weather information:

If the Ash leaf appears before the Oak
Then there'll be a very great soak.
But if the Oak comes before the Ash,
Then expect a very small splash.

Please click on another tree below for more specific information: