Fraxinus angustifolia 'Raywood', commonly known as Claret Ash, is a striking deciduous tree prized for its elegant form, vibrant foliage, and picturesque autumn coloration. This cultivar, belonging to the Oleaceae family, is valued for its ornamental appeal and tolerance to a wide range of environmental conditions, making it a popular choice for Australian gardens, parks, and streetscapes.

Height and Width

• Height: Typically grows to a height of 8 to 10 meters, but can reach greater heights in optimal growing conditions.
• Width: Spreads out to a width of about 6 to 8 meters, forming a broad, rounded canopy with age.

Soil Type

• Soil Preference: Claret Ash prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a loamy or sandy texture. It can tolerate a range of soil pH levels, from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline, but performs best in soil that is rich in organic matter and moisture-retentive. Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.

Plant Description

• Foliage: The tree features pinnate leaves composed of 7 to 9 narrow leaflets that emerge with a bronze-green color in spring, gradually maturing to a deep green shade in summer. In autumn, the foliage transforms into a spectacular display of vivid burgundy-red to purple hues, creating a striking contrast against the landscape.
• Bark: The trunk of Claret Ash is smooth and gray in youth, developing distinctive ridges and furrows with age. The bark adds visual interest and texture to the tree's silhouette, especially during the winter months when the branches are bare.
• Growth Habit: 'Raywood' has an upright, vase-shaped growth habit when young, gradually maturing into a broadly spreading tree with a rounded canopy. It typically forms a single trunk with ascending branches that arch gracefully outward, creating a picturesque silhouette in the landscape.

Flower Description

• Flowers: Claret Ash produces inconspicuous clusters of small, greenish-yellow flowers in spring before the foliage emerges. The flowers are not a significant ornamental feature of the tree and are typically overlooked in favor of its vibrant foliage and autumn coloration.

Cultivation and Care

• Watering: Provide regular watering to establish young trees and during periods of drought to maintain soil moisture. Once established, Claret Ash is moderately drought-tolerant but benefits from occasional deep watering during dry spells. Avoid waterlogging, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot.
• Sunlight: Claret Ash thrives in full sun to partial shade, with at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Full sun exposure promotes vigorous growth and enhances the intensity of the autumn foliage coloration. Plant in a location with ample sunlight and protection from strong winds.
• Temperature: Claret Ash is well-suited to the Australian climate and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from hot summers to cold winters. It is adaptable to both coastal and inland regions but may suffer leaf scorch in extreme heat or prolonged drought. Provide supplemental watering and mulch to conserve soil moisture during periods of high temperature and dryness.
• Pruning: Prune as needed to maintain shape, remove dead or diseased branches, and improve air circulation within the canopy. Claret Ash responds well to pruning and can be lightly trimmed to control size and density. Avoid heavy pruning, as excessive cutting can detract from the tree's natural form and beauty.
• Fertilising: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser formulated for deciduous trees in spring to promote healthy growth and foliage coloration. Alternatively, use a liquid fertiliser for ornamental trees every 4 to 6 weeks during the growing season.

Additional Notes

• Pests and Diseases: Claret Ash is relatively resistant to pests and diseases but may be susceptible to issues such as aphids, scale insects, and fungal diseases in humid conditions. Monitor regularly and treat promptly if pests or diseases are detected. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overcrowding to minimize fungal issues.
• Uses: Ideal for use as a shade tree, specimen tree, or focal point in gardens, parks, and streetscapes. Claret Ash adds year-round beauty with its graceful form, vibrant foliage, and picturesque autumn coloration, making it a popular choice for enhancing the visual appeal of residential and commercial landscapes.

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