THE GREEN ASH 



THERE has been considerable discussion in regard to the specific relationship of 

 the Red Ash and the tree which is commonly called the Green Ash, a sort which 

 differs chiefly in having the bark of the twigs smooth. By many botanists the 

 Green Ash is classified as a variety of the Red. The gist of the matter seems to have been 

 concisely stated by Professor C. S. Sargent, who writes: " East of the Mississippi River the 

 Red and Green Ashes grow side by side and retain their individual character ; but in the 

 West they are connected by intermediate forms which can be referred to one as well as 

 to the other." 



The general characters of the species are well shown on the plate. The slender 

 leaflets have distinctly serrate margins and are shining green both above and below, to 

 which fact its common name is due. 



The tree has a round top and the bark of the twigs lacks the hairy covering that is 

 characteristic of the Red Ash. The blossoms appear as the leaves are developing, the 

 pollen-bearing flowers in small clusters on one tree and the seed-bearing flowers in longer 

 panicles on another tree. The paddle-like fruits are indistinguishable from those of the 

 Red Ash. 



The Green Ash seems to be most abundant and distinctive in the region between the 

 Alleghany Mountains and the Mississippi River: although abundant west of that river 

 it is more likely to intergrade into the Red Ash. In this region, however, it is one of the 

 most valuable trees for purposes of forestry and shade, and has been very largely planted 

 upon the plains, where it thrives in comparatively dry situations. 



On the Pacific Slope there is a splendid Ash tree called the Oregon Ash Fraxinus 

 Oregona which compares favorably with the best forms in the more eastern regions. 

 The tree reaches a height of eighty feet and a trunk diameter of four feet, and occurs as a 

 forest growth in the valleys of water-courses. The lumber is of much value and is used for 

 a great variety of purposes. 



C28O 



