Fraxinus griffithii Evergreen Ash

Fraxinus griffithii, commonly known as Evergreen Ash, is a handsome evergreen tree prized for its lush foliage, graceful form, and adaptability to a variety of growing conditions. This native Australian species, belonging to the Oleaceae family, is valued for its ornamental appeal and ability to provide year-round interest in gardens, parks, and streetscapes across Australia.

Height and Width

• Height: Typically grows to a height of 8 to 12 meters, though can reach greater heights under 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: Evergreen Ash thrives in well-drained, fertile soil with a loamy or sandy texture. It is adaptable to various soil types, including clay and alkaline soils, 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 glossy, dark green leaves that are pinnate in arrangement, with 5 to 9 leaflets arranged oppositely along the stem. The foliage provides an attractive backdrop for the tree's canopy and adds year-round beauty to the landscape.
• Bark: The trunk of Evergreen Ash is smooth and gray in youth, developing subtle fissures and ridges 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: F. griffithii has an upright, pyramidal 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 an elegant and picturesque silhouette in the landscape.

Flower and Fruit Description

• Flowers: Evergreen Ash produces small, inconspicuous clusters of greenish flowers in spring, followed by the development of winged seeds (samaras) in late summer to autumn. The flowers are not a significant ornamental feature of the tree, and the seeds are often overlooked in favor of its lush foliage and graceful form.

Cultivation and Care

• Watering: Provide regular watering to establish young trees and during periods of drought to maintain soil moisture. Once established, Evergreen 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: Evergreen 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 density of the canopy. Plant in a location with ample sunlight and protection from strong winds.
• Temperature: Evergreen 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. Evergreen 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 density. Alternatively, use a liquid fertiliser for ornamental trees every 4 to 6 weeks during the growing season.

Additional Notes

• Pests and Diseases: Evergreen Ash is relatively resistant to pests and diseases but may be susceptible to issues such as aphids, scale insects, and powdery mildew 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. Evergreen Ash adds year-round beauty with its lush foliage, graceful form, and adaptability to a wide range of growing conditions, making it a versatile and popular choice for enhancing the visual appeal of outdoor spaces.

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