Velvet Ash (Fraxinus velutina)

Velvet Ash

Fraxinus velutina

Rough velvet leaves catch sunlight like soft green coins. Deciduous shade tree; common name: Velvet Ash.

Full sun
1–2/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Thrives in full sun; tolerates partial shade in intense summer heat to reduce leaf scorch
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Watering Drought-tolerant once established; water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root development
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Temperature Hardy to -10°C; withstands high summer temperatures up to 40°C with adequate soil moisture
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Pinnately compound with 5–9 leaflets; velvety pale undersides contrast with dark green upper surfaces
  • Flower: Small, inconspicuous greenish-yellow clusters; dioecious (separate male and female trees)
  • Stem/Bark: Young stems have fuzzy pubescence; mature bark is gray-brown with shallow, scaly furrows
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Care Guide

Watering

Water deeply every 7–10 days during active growth; avoid overwatering

Fertilization

Apply balanced slow-release fertilizer once in early spring. Use low-nitrogen fertilizer to promote healthy canopy growth without excessive foliage

Eggshell powder topdressing:Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; spread 1–2 cm layer over soil surface to boost calcium levels and deter minor soil-borne pests
Pruning
  • Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches during late winter dormancy
  • Thin overcrowded canopy to improve airflow and sunlight penetration
  • Shape young trees to establish a strong central leader for structural stability
  • Avoid heavy pruning during active growth to reduce stress and sap loss
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA-verified non-toxic; no risk of poisoning from ingestion or contact

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse health effects from ingestion or contact

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental shade tree, windbreak for arid landscapes, wildlife food source for birds