Fraxinus ornus (Flowering Ash)

Fraxinus ornus (Flowering Ash) is a deciduous tree native to southern Europe and southwestern Asia. It belongs to the Oleaceae family and is known for its attractive clusters of white flowers and its historical use in producing a sweet, sugary substance called manna. Flowering Ash is widely cultivated for its ornamental value and its ability to thrive in various soil and climate conditions.

Size and Appearance: Flowering Ash is a medium-sized tree that typically reaches heights of 10-15 meters (30-50 feet). It has a rounded crown with a spreading habit. The trunk is grayish-brown and develops fissures and ridges with age.

Leaves: The leaves of Fraxinus ornus are compound, consisting of 5-9 leaflets. The leaflets are ovate or elliptic in shape and have serrated edges. They have a glossy green color on the upper surface and a lighter green color on the underside. In autumn, the foliage can turn shades of yellow or purple before falling.

Flowers: Flowering Ash produces abundant clusters of fragrant, small white flowers in late spring to early summer. The flowers are bisexual, meaning they have both male and female reproductive parts. They are arranged in panicles at the tips of the branches and create a showy display. The flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Fruit: After flowering, Fraxinus ornus develops winged seeds in the form of samaras. The samaras are oar-shaped and contain a single seed. They are light and can be dispersed by wind.

One notable feature of Flowering Ash is the production of manna, a sweet substance that forms on the bark of the tree. Manna has historically been used in traditional medicine and as a natural sweetener. It is produced by small insects feeding on the sap of the tree, resulting in the crystallization of sugars on the bark.

Flowering Ash is adaptable to various soil types but prefers well-drained soil. It can tolerate both full sun and partial shade, although it tends to flower more abundantly in full sun.

Please note that while Fraxinus ornus is generally a healthy tree species, it can be susceptible to certain pests and diseases, such as ash dieback (caused by the fungus Hymenoscyphus fraxineus). Proper monitoring and management practices are necessary to maintain the health and vitality of Flowering Ash populations.