Fraxinus angustifolia 'Raywood'

Raywood ash, claret ash

Large deciduous tree with pinnately compound, green leaves, turning claret red to plum purple in autumn.  Inconspicuous flowers in spring. Narrow, upright growth initially, broad-headed when mature.

Chance seedling of Fraxinus angustifolia subsp. oxycarpa, discovered in a South Australian nursery, and subsequently grown on at the nearby Raywood property. Also known as Fraxinus oxycarpa 'Raywood'.

Prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Can be grown in any soil-type, although surface roots may become a problem in clay soils and wet sites. Frost hardy (USDA zones 6-9).

Striking foliage colour from early autumn onwards. In spring and summer the foliage is also attractive, in particular from a distance where it seems to have a plume-like texture, waving gracefully in the wind. Makes a beautiful specimen tree. Not suitable for very exposed sites. Near my home they are planted as street trees, and after strong winds there are always some that have lost quite large branches.