Fraxinus excelsior 'Hessei'
Hessei European Ash

Family:

Oleaceae (Olive Family) 45

Genus:

Fraxinus (Ash) 15

Plant Type:

Tree 580

Hardiness:

USDA Zone 4 498

Deciduous / Evergreen:

Deciduous 807

Flowers:

Green (Not ornamentally important)

Foliage:

Green (Glossy dark green summer foliage; no fall color change)

Ultimate Height:

50-60 feet

Ultimate Spread:

40-50 feet

Light Requirements:

Soil:

Prefers moist, rich, well-drained soils

Diagnostic Characteristics:

The lustrous, deep green leaves are opposite, simple, prominately toothed with an acuminate apex. Buds are black and pubescent.

Special Characteristics:

Shade Tree 172

Street Tree 130

Additional Information

Fraxinus excelsior 'Hessei' is a large, vigorous, seedless tree with simple leaves, compared to the compound leaves of the species type. The Hessei European Ash does not tolerate hot and dry conditions. This cultivar has some pest resistance, but is quite susceptible to the Emerald Ash Borer, which is severely affecting all species of this genus. Damage can be prevented with the appropriate pesticide, but the treatment cost will eventually exceed replacement cost.