What Are Red Ash Trees Used For?

Red ash trees, also known as green ash, are commonly found along streams and wetlands throughout the United States. These trees also do well in urban areas, especially where drought is common.

Restoration

Red ashes are hardy, fast-growing trees that can tolerate climate extremes. They prefer moist or flooded soils, but can survive in dry, compacted soils.

Landscape Architecture

These trees are often used in parking lots, median strips and residential yards. They can easily survive in these areas, but their roots can crack sidewalks and driveways.

Natural Uses

Due to their rapid growth, red ashes can establish a community providing soil stability and shade for shade-tolerant plants. Their fruit is also a source of food for many birds.

Economic Uses

Red ash wood is hard yet bendable, making it desirable for things like hand tools and baseball bats. However, the red ash wood is less marketable than the wood from white ashes.

Precautions

Red ashes are highly susceptible to insect damage, which can deteriorate portions of the trunk, damage branches and allow for fungi to get into the tree. Some common problematic insects are oystershell scales, carpenterworms and ash borers.

References

• U.S. Forest Service Fact Sheet
• Green Ash