The Ash & Ash Wood

Apr 6, 2024

By René Riebenbauer

The "common" ash

The ash tree (Fraxinus exelsior) is a deciduous tree species native to Europe. Ash trees can reach a height of 40 meters and are therefore among the tallest deciduous trees in Europe. However, ash trees only make up about 1% of our forests.

That is precisely why it is one of the most remarkable trees in our forests. With its stately appearance and the diverse uses of its wood, it plays an important role both ecologically and economically.

The ash tree is known for its dense foliage. The bark is smooth when young, but develops a rustic, cracked appearance with age.

Habit & distribution of the ash tree

Ash trees can grow to 40 meters tall under good conditions, but when growing freely in gardens or meadows, they usually only reach around 20 meters. They typically live to be 250 years old – as long as they remain healthy.

Currently, ash tree populations in Europe are threatened by a fungus (Hymenoscyphus fraxineus), leading to the dramatic decline of many ash stands. Often, felling is the only solution.

The leaves of the ash tree are pinnate, and throughout the year the ash tree is known for its winged seeds.

The ash tree prefers, among other things, moist, nutrient-rich locations and can be found in deciduous or mixed forests as well as in solitary positions.

The ash tree has significant ecological benefits. It provides food and habitat for a wide variety of animals. Furthermore, its taproot system contributes significantly to soil stability.

Known ash tree species:

Common ash (Fraxinus exelsior)
Flowering ash ( Fraxinus ornus)
Chinese flowering ash ( Fraxinus paxiana)
Narrow-leaved ash (Fraxinus angustifolia)
Oregon ash (Fraxinus latifolia)
American ash ( Fraxinus americana)

Note: The ash tree is not related to the rowan tree.

Ash wood is known for its hardness, elasticity, and toughness. Therefore, from an economic perspective, it is one of the most versatile and important native wood species.

Uses of ash wood:

Furniture
parquet
Sports equipment
Tool handles
firewood
Various turned wood items made from ash wood , wooden kitchen utensils , etc...

Ash wood is relatively heavy, normally light in color, and possesses a beautiful, characteristic grain that makes it attractive for decorative purposes. However, there is a special form of ash wood – it can sometimes be dark if the heartwood has a brownish tint. This is then referred to as "heart ash" or "olive ash".

This discoloration has no impact on the quality or stability of the wood, but only affects the appearance.

Due to its resilience, ash can sometimes even be used outdoors.

Use of ash wood

Furniture making, floor coverings: Ash wood is not only decorative, but also hard and durable.
Wooden kitchen accessories : Due to its hardness, it is often used for all kinds of kitchen utensils, cutting boards, children's toys, writing instruments , etc.
Tool handles : Ash wood is tough and elastic - making it ideal for tool handles.
Firewood: Due to its hardness, ash wood has an excellent calorific value.

My conclusion on ash and its wood

Similar to the European beech, which is also valued for its hardness and versatility, the ash tree is characterized by many properties that make it particularly valuable for both ecological and economic purposes.

The wood has its own unique characteristics and can exhibit many different appearances. It's not only decorative – it's also excellent for turning. Ash trees are impressive specimens in Europe. One can only hope that the problem of ash dieback can be contained in the medium term to prevent further threats to this magnificent deciduous tree.

I really enjoy working with ash wood and use it to make, among other things, wooden products such as: