1. Common Ash

Common Name - Ash

Latin Name - Fraxinus excelsior

Height is 35 metres

Living to a grand old age of over 400 years, the Ash tree was once the third most common broadleaf tree in Britain, but due to ‘Ash Die Back’ the population has declined. Ash trees, can ultimately reach a height of 35m and have delicate light green ‘leaflets’ rather than single leaves and pale brown/grey bark, which fissures with age. Interestingly, the leaves may move in the direction of sunlight, and sometimes the whole crown may lean towards the direction of the sun (Phototropism).

During winter the tree can be easily identified by its distinctively black, velvety leaf buds that are arranged oppositely. The Ash is renowned for producing winged seeds and its leaves are a good source of food for bullfinches and many species of caterpillar. The timber has been widely used to manufacture products like snooker cues, hockey sticks and rowing oars and is also an attractive wood for making furniture.