Pumpkin ash, or Fraxinus profunda, is a species of ash tree that grows mainly in swamps in the eastern United States. This medium-sized deciduous tree is critically endangered because the feeding habits of the emerald ash borer has caused a decline in pumpkin ash population.
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Perennial
Lifespan
Tree
Plant Type
Spring
Bloom Time
Fall
Harvest Time
12 m to 30 m
Plant Height
9 m to 15 m
Spread
Green, Red, Bronze
Leaf Color
Brown, Green
Fruit Color
Green, Yellow, Purple, Lavender
Flower Color
Green, Red, Brown
Stem Color
Deciduous
Leaf type
On This Page
Attributes
Quickly Identify
Care Guide
FAQs
Attributes of Pumpkin ash
Growth Rate
Exhibiting a rapid growth rate, pumpkin ash swiftly transforms during Spring and Summer. This quick speed leads to abundant leaf production and astounding height increase, especially prominent when seasonal temperatures peak. Such speed may cause pumpkin ash to outcompete neighbouring flora. Interesting horticultural note: pumpkin ash's growth slows down significantly in less favourable seasons, mirroring its synchronization with favorable climate patterns.
Quickly Identify Pumpkin ash
1
Leaves dark green, compound, 9-18 inches (23-46 cm) long with 7-9 leaflets; turn bronze in fall.
2
Distinctive light gray-brown bark with interlacing ridges, rough texture, and blocky appearance.
3
Flowers small, greenish, under 0.2 inches (5 mm) diameter, crucial for identification.
4
Fruit in drooping clusters, elongated samaras 2-3 inches (5-7.6 cm) long, one-winged with tan tones.
5
Often grows dioecious, with separate male and female trees; female trees bear fruit in late summer to fall.
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Water:
Pumpkin ash thrives in wet habitats like swamps and riverbanks, requiring high humidity and significant water. It needs watering every three weeks and is a deciduous tree, shedding leaves annually to conserve water during drier seasons.
Fertilize:
For optimal growth, pumpkin ash requires balanced fertilizers in spring and high-nitrogen options during active growth. Apply quarterly, adjust for growth phases, and always fertilize on moist soil. Water afterward to enhance nutrient uptake while avoiding root burn and runoff for healthy longevity.
Pruning:
Pumpkin ash is a deciduous tree with large, compound leaves and waterlogging resistance. Prune in early spring to remove dead or crossing branches, improving airflow and light penetration. Regular maintenance fosters vigorous growth and resilience against environmental stressors.
Propagation:
Pumpkin ash thrives in moist soil and is propagated by sowing seeds that require cold stratification for enhanced germination. Seeds should be sown in well-draining soil with adequate moisture. Protect seedlings from extremes until they establish a strong root system before transplanting.
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