The green ash and white ash trees are two of the most commonly used types of ash trees in North America. While they share some similarities, there are also some key differences between these two tree species. This blog post will take a closer look at those differences.
What is White Ash?
White ash (Fraxinus americana) is a species of ash tree that is native to North America. It is one of the most common trees in the eastern United States, where it is often used as a shade tree. White ash can grow to be over 100 feet tall, with a trunk diameter of up to 3 feet. The bark is pale gray and smooth, with distinctive bristle-like pores. The leaves are oval-shaped and about 10 inches long, with serrated margins. The flowers are small and greenish-white, appearing in clusters in early spring. White ash is particularly valued for its wood, which is strong and durable. It is often used in making furniture, flooring, and baseball bats.
What is Green Ash?
- Green ash (Fraxinus pennsylvanica) is a common tree of the eastern United States and Canada. It typically reaches a height of 15–25 m (50–80 ft) with a trunk diameter of 0.60–0.90 m (2.0–3.0 ft), however, occasional specimens may grow as tall as 40 m (130 ft) with a trunk diameter of 1.5 m (4.9 ft).
- Green ash is often used as a street tree and in parks because it is tolerant of a wide range of soils and growing conditions, although it generally prefers deep, moist, well-drained soils. It is also tolerant of flooding and drought once it is established. Green ash is susceptible to the emerald ash borer (EAB), an invasive insect that has caused the death of millions of ash trees across North America.
- However, there are some green ash trees that are naturally resistant to EAB infestation. Green ash is also a popular source of wood for many applications, including furniture, flooring, and cabinetry.
Difference between White and Green Ash
- White and Green Ash are both common types of trees in North America. Though they are similar in many ways, there are also some key differences between the two. White Ash is typically taller than Green Ash, reaching heights of up to 80 feet. Green Ash, on the other hand, usually only grows to be about 40-60 feet tall. White Ash also has slightly larger leaves, and its branches tend to grow in a more upright fashion.
- The bark of White Ash is smooth and gray, while the bark of Green Ash is rougher and has a greenish-brown color. Finally, White Ash produces winged seeds that are about an inch long, while Green Ash produces samaras that are only about half an inch long. Though they may seem similar at first glance, White and Green Ash actually have quite a few distinct features.
Conclusion
White and green ash are two different types of ash trees. The major difference between the two is that white ash leafs out earlier in the spring, while green ash leafs out later. Both types of ash grow best in moist, well-drained soils.
