Fraxinus mandshurica
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 Manchurian Ash leaf and bark
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| Fraxinus mandshurica Marsh. |
Manchurian Ash is a species of ash native to Asia and central europe. This tree can be found today in parts of Western Canada & Eastern Canada as well as many locations across the United States. The Manchurian Ash is tolerant of many soil conditions including the wet soils of swamps and river valleys.
It is a medium to large-sized deciduous tree reaching 10-16 m (33-55 ft.) tall with a crown width of around 7-11 m (25 to 35 ft.). The trunk can grow up to 50 cm in diameter. It's exotic shaped leaves resemble that of the Black Ash tree. The Manchurian Ash turns to an attractive golden-yellow in early autumn, and the tree is usually the earliest to change color. The flowers are produced in spring at the same time as the new leaves, in compact panicles; they are inconspicuous with no petals, and are wind-pollinated. The fruit is a samara comprising a single seed 1-2 cm long with an elongated apical wing 2.5-4 cm long and 5-7 mm broad. The samara can sometimes be messy on urban lawns.
This tree requires full sun for optimal growth, and should receive at least 50cm of precipitation each year. It is not particular as to soil pH. It is also highly tolerant of urban pollution and will even grow well in inner city environments.
One of the few cultivated varieties of Manchurian ash in existence is the Manchana Ash (Fraxinus mandshurica ‘Mancana’) Introduced by Morden Research Station, Morden, Manitoba. It has a Dense oval to globose male tree, Very hardy and attractive.[1][2]
[edit] Uses
Manchurian Ash can be used as a medium height wind break for a farmstead. The seeds or samara are eaten and enjoyed by a wide variety of birds. The tree also makes an excellent landscape tree in moist areas, especially along roads and ditches where a good amount of water can be available. The Manchurian Ash grows into a more dense oval form with age.
