Raywood Ash trees are large shade trees that have a wine red Fall foliage color. While not as drought tolerant as initially thought, these trees make fantastic lawn trees and will cover large areas.
To learn more about their function as a shade tree you can read this article comparing the best shade trees for the desert.
All pricing and availability are subject to change
Pricing:
5 gallon – $35
15 gallon – $70
24″ box – $200
Details and Care Information:
Sunset Zones: 2-9 and 14-24
USDA Hardiness Zones: 5-8
Sun Exposure: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Soil: Highly Acidic to Highly Alkaline
Drought Tolerance: Not Drought Tolerant*
Growth Rate: 24” per year
Growth Habit: Oval or Rounded Shape
Height: 40-50ft.
Width: 20-30ft.
Evergreen or Deciduous: Deciduous
Longevity: 50 to 150 Years
Litter Issue: None
Pests and Diseases: Resistant to Armillaria. Susceptible to Beetle Borers, Scales and White Fly, Root Rot, Sooty Mold and Verticillium.
Branch Strength: Medium
Root Damage Potential: Moderate
Suckering Potential: High
Special Care: These trees were previously thought to be drought tolerant, but evidence suggests that lack of watering leads to branch dieback: https://napavalleyregister.com/lifestyles/raywood-ash-gets-bad-rap/article_7b2c5fc1-1a39-5955-bbe4-fd5ea3002593.html Even once mature, a monthly watering during the growing season (especially in Summer) will help to prevent branch dieback.
Pruning Advice: Prune off lowest branches until desired height is attained, but it is recommended not to do too much pruning as they have a great natural form.
Watering Advice: Regular watering until establishment, then less frequency deep watering.
Staking: These trees typically do not require substantial staking even here in the High Desert.
Fertilizer: Fertilizing in early spring will help develop a strong tree early on in its life.
