Description
Any of several hardwood ash trees from the family Oleaceae, genus Fraxinus. Ash trees are widespread throughout the temperate regions of North America (white ash-F. americana; black ash-F. nigra; green ash-F. pennsylvania), Europe (common ash-F. excelsior) and Asia (Japanese ash-F. mandschurica; Chinese ash-F. chinensis). Ash trees produce distinctive growth rings with very large open pores followed by small, tight pores. The light-color, dense, elastic wood has a straight grain that is moderately durable but susceptible to insect attack and moisture degradation. The tough, heavy timber is used for ladders, tool handles, oars, poles, gymnasium equipment and hockey sticks because it produces a smooth surface that rarely splinters. Ash was also popular for furniture (especially colonial pieces), wheels, and carriage frames.
Synonyms and Related Terms
white ash (Fraxinus americana); black ash (Fraxinus nigra); green ash (Fraxinus pennsylvania); common ash (Fraxinus excelsior); American ash; European ash; Japanese ash (Fraxinus mandschurica); Chinese ash (Fraxinus chinensis); frêne (Fr.); Esche (Deut.); frassino (It.); fresno (Esp.); freixo (Port.)
| specific gravity = 0.69 |
| 40-53 ppcf |
Other Properties
Light-color. Rings: distinct. Pores: coarse (in rings). Grain: distinct. Rays: obscure rays. Hard; heavy.
Additional Information
Schoch, W., Heller, I., Schweingruber, F.H., Kienast, F., 2004:
Wood anatomy of central European Species: English Ash,
Fraxinus excelsior L.
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Last updated on: 10/25/2007 1:26:47 PM
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