Ash (Fraxinus americana)

The white ash (which is probably what Jeremiah saw) is valued as a “timber” tree.  It is a member of a large family of seventy species found in northern forests (related to olive trees). It was a favorite of settlers for many uses but particularly for flooring their homes. It is still prized by the lumber industry.

It produces a tiny, inconspicuous flower in the early spring and the seeds are winged (much like a maple tree).  Ash leaves are pinately compound (like a feather).  The leaflets have entire margins (smooth edges). They are alternately arranged on the twigs (first one side of the twig, then the other).

In recent years, blight has affected the ashes of North America. No prevention has yet been found for the disease.