As the name suggests, the European ash can be found throughout Europe. It is also known as the common ash. Unlike most ashes, this tree is generally wider than it is tall when mature. Look for black buds as a characteristic to distinguish them from other ashes, which usually have brown buds. The leaves of European ash comprise seven to 13 leaflets. While some cultivars have a yellow color in the fall, the native species tend to drop their leaves while they are still green.
European ash is reported to be somewhat less attractive to emerald ash borer than are black, green, and white ashes, but it is far from immune.
Native area: Europe and southwestern Asia
USDA growing zones: 5 to 8
Height: 60 to 80 feet; sometimes taller
Sun exposure: Full sun