Fraxinus pennsylvanica
Green ash is the most abundant of all the American ashes, tolerating a variety of environments and having one of the largest ranges. Though it prefers to be next to a stream or within a wetland, green ash does well in urban environments and was historically planted throughout many neighborhoods and parks after the loss of American elms in the 1950s from Dutch elm disease. Unfortunately, a similar pestilence has followed green ash, among the other ashes, in the wake of the emerald ash borer (Agrilus planipennis), or EAB. EAB has proven to be massively detrimental to all ashes and has decimated their population, eventually bringing Fraxinus pennsylvanica to Critically Endangered in 2017. The United States Forest Service and other agencies are working to improve the population.
Family: Oleaceae
Foliage: Deciduous
Mature height range: 50-75 ft. (though can reach higher heights)
Light exposure: Full sun to full shade
Soil preference: Moist, fertile soil
Tolerance: Tolerant to urban and shade conditions, provided there is enough water, though is severely sensitive to presence of the emerald ash borer (Agrilus planipennis)
Wildlife: Fruit is eaten by birds and mammals, browsing by mammals, nesting site for birds
