Due to emerald ash borer (EAB) susceptibility, blue ash is not recommended for planting in this region, and usually requires removal and/or replacement. Blue ash, a Midwest native, is often found growing in limestone outcrops. It has distinctive, 4-sided winged stems and gray platy bark.
This species is native to the Chicago region according to Swink and Wilhelm’s Plants of the Chicago Region, with updates made according to current research.
- Family (English) Olive
- Family (botanic) Oleaceae
- Tree or plant type Tree
- Foliage Deciduous (seasonally loses leaves)
- Native locale Chicago area, Illinois, North America
- Size range Large tree (more than 40 feet)
- Mature height 50-70 feet
- Mature width 25-35 feet
- Light exposure Full sun (6 hrs direct light daily)
- Hardiness zones Zone 4, Zone 5 (Northern Illinois), Zone 6 (City of Chicago), Zone 7
- Soil preference Dry soil, Moist, well-drained soil
- Tolerances Alkaline soil, Clay soil, Dry sites, Wet sites
- Season of interest early fall, mid fall
- Flower color and fragrance Inconspicuous
- Shape or form Irregular
- Growth rate Moderate
- Transplants well No
- Wildlife Insect pollinators, Migrant birds
- Has cultivars Yes