Chinese ash (Fraxinus chinensis, Fl. Ind. 1: 150 (1820))

Family: Oleaceae

Author: Roxb.

Bibliography: Fl. Ind. 1: 150 (1820)

Year: 1820

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Fraxinus

Vegetable: False

Observations: Russian Far East to Japan and Indo-China

Description

The Chinese Ash is a deciduous tree scientifically known as Fraxinus chinensis. This species was formally described in the early 19th century by Roxburgh, featuring prominently in “Flora Indica” (Volume 1, page 150, published in 1820).

Belonging to the Oleaceae family, the Chinese Ash is a notable species recognized for its broad geographical distribution. It thrives across the diverse climates of the Russian Far East, extends through the landscapes of Japan, and reaches the tropical and subtropical regions of Indo-China.

The Chinese Ash is valued both for its ecological contributions and its aesthetic appeal. This tree is characterized by its compound leaves, which typically have seven to eleven leaflets, each narrowly ovate and tapering to a point. During the autumn months, these leaves turn a stunning golden yellow, creating a picturesque display.

In addition to its decorative value, Fraxinus chinensis is also known for its utility. The tree’s durable wood is often employed in crafting furniture, tools, and sporting goods. Furthermore, parts of the plant have been used in traditional medicine, highlighting its importance across various cultures within its range.

Overall, the Chinese Ash is a versatile and widespread species, reflecting both the natural beauty and practical benefits of the Oleaceae family.

Common Names

Eng: chinese ash
Swe: kinesisk ask
En: Chinese ash
Bg: Китайски ясен
Zh: 白蜡树
Fi: Kiinansaarni
Ru: Ясень китайский
Sv: Kinesisk ask
Zh-tw: 白蜡樹
Uk: Ясен китайський
Vi: Tần bì

Synonyms

Distribution

• China North-Central (native)
• China South-Central (native)
• China Southeast (native)
• Inner Mongolia (native)
• Japan (native)
• Korea (native)
• Laos (native)
• Manchuria (native)
• Primorye (native)
• Qinghai (native)
• Thailand (native)
• Tibet (native)
• Vietnam (native)
• Puerto Rico (introduced)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Mar 15, 2020 by Diego Alex (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 29, 2022 by Dieter Albrecht (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken Dec 2, 2020 by Maarten Vanhove (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 29, 2022 by Dieter Albrecht (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 11, 2018 by Dieter Albrecht (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 11, 2018 by Dieter Albrecht (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 23, 2022 by Anatas (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Mar 15, 2020 by Diego Alex (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 29, 2022 by Dieter Albrecht (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 23, 2022 by Anatas (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 23, 2022 by Anatas (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 26, 2022 by georges le bars (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken May 29, 2022 by Dieter Albrecht (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 11, 2018 by Dieter Albrecht (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 23, 2022 by Anatas (cc-by-sa)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3172325)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:608968-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Fraxinus chinensis Roxb.)

Specifications

Growth