The shade intolerant, moisture-loving Black Ash can be found in pure stands but is usually found growing near Black Spruce, Balsam Fir and Speckled Alder. The wood is very flexible and is able to be permanently bent, which makes it very useful in creating snowshoes and canoe ribs. The wood ashes of this tree are rich in potash, which is utilised as a soil fertilizer. The seeds of the Black Ash provide essential food for wild turkeys, grouse and other small mammals.

The central stalk of the Black Ash contains 7-11 leaflets that each measure 15-30cm long. They are all oval shaped and taper to a slender tip. Photo by Brian Lacey.

Bark of the Black Ash is light grey, with corky ridges that can be easily removed by hand. Photo by Sean Fox.

The terminal bud of the Black Ash is 4-10mm long, dark brown and distinctly pointed. Photo by Sean Fox.

Ontario Tree Atlas map of non-planted Black Ash. 1995-1999.

Return to tree listing page [1]

References

Farrar, J.L.. 1995. Trees in Canada. Fitzhenry & Whiteside Ltd. Toronto. ON. 504 pp.  

Kershaw, L. 2001. Trees in Ontario: Including tall shrubs. Lone Pine Publishing. Edmonton. AB. 240 pp

Muma, W. 2011. Ontario Trees and Shrubs. [Online] Available: www.ontariotrees.com

OMNR, 2011. Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources: Ontario Tree Atlas. [Online] Available: http://www.mnr.gov.on.ca/en/Business/ClimateChange/2ColumnSubPage/267027.html

OMNR, 2008. Ontario’s Biodiversity: Species at Risk.