Fraxinus pennsylvanica Argenteomarginata - Ash

Fraxinus pennsylvanica 'Argenteomarginata', also known as the Variegated Pennsylvania Ash, is a slow-growing tree that can reach a height of 6 to 8 m. It is appreciated for its slender habit and foliage variegated with green and cream-white, becoming even brighter in the summer. It adapts to all types of gardens, provided it finds a suitable location for its growth, and requires little care. Its maintenance is limited to light pruning to remove reverted branches on which only green leaves will appear. Resistant to air pollution, it adapts to urban conditions. A sunny or semi-shaded position, with light shading, is preferable to avoid leaf burn. In the garden, planted in front of a darker vegetation background, it will create contrast and brighten the space.

Fraxinus pennsylvanica, commonly known as the Red Pennsylvania Ash, is a tree of the olive family, just like the olive tree, jasmine, privet, or lilac. It is mainly found in North America, over a wide range from the Atlantic coast to Colorado, Alberta, and Montana in the west. Generally, its dimensions range from 12 to 25 metres in height and its trunk does not exceed 60 cm in diameter. In autumn, its foliage turns a beautiful, particularly attractive lemon yellow. It is very resistant to pollution and diseases, so often used as a street tree.

The 'Argenteomarginata' variety was discovered in Germany in 1865 and introduced to the market in 1889 by the Späth nurseries in Berlin, under the name Fraxinus americana 'Argenteomarginata'. It forms a slender tree with a straight trunk and an elliptical, but irregular, crown. It is slow-growing and reaches an adult size (15 to 20 years old) of 6 to 8 m in height with a spread of about 3 to 5 m. Numerous rigid branches, with smooth grey bark, bear 15 to 25 cm long leaves, composed of 5 to 9 lanceolate leaflets, 3 to 5 cm long and pointed at the end, almost always deformed (bulging). The leaf is speckled with tender green and broadly bordered with cream-white. This deciduous tree that loses its leaves in autumn does not produce flowers or fruits.

The Variegated Pennsylvania Ash is a medium-sized tree that grows in a free form, making it an excellent choice for nature lovers. Its elegant silhouette and colourful foliage bring a touch of originality to your landscape. It is robust and resistant to winter cold (down to -30C°). It tolerates slightly acidic to neutral soils and requires deep, rich, moist soils with good drainage. A sunny exposure is preferable, but it can tolerate a slightly shaded location. It is sensitive to stagnant water and drought conditions, with leaves burning in high heat. It can be planted alone or in groups for filtered shade or to add colour and light to the garden. It is recommended for gardens, parks, streets, squares, and large lawns.