Due to susceptibility to emerald ash borer (EAB), green ash is not recommended for planting anywhere in this region and usually requires removal and/or replacement. Green ash is a highly adaptable native tree. It is very cold hardy and tolerant of a wide range of soil pH and moisture levels. 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 50-60 feet
- Mature width 25-40 feet
- Light exposure Full sun (6 hrs direct light daily), Partial sun / shade (4-6 hrs light daily)
- Hardiness zones Zone 2, Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5 (Northern Illinois), Zone 6 (City of Chicago), Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9
- Soil preference Moist, well-drained soil, Wet soil
- Tolerances Alkaline soil, Clay soil, Dry sites, Occasional drought, Occasional flooding, Road salt, Wet sites
- Season of interest early fall, mid fall
- Flower color and fragrance Inconspicuous
- Shape or form Oval, Round, Upright
- Growth rate Fast
- Transplants well Yes
- Planting considerations Aggressive, Weak wood and branch structure
- Wildlife Game birds, Insect pollinators, Migrant birds
- Has cultivars Yes