A handsome shade tree with fine dark-green foliage that turns a deep wine-claret purple in autumn. Fast and adaptable, it is one of the most popular deciduous avenue trees.
At a glance
- Plant type: Tree
- Mature size: 15 m H × 10 m W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: happy on low water
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Claret Ash
Fraxinus angustifolia 'Raywood' is a fast-growing tree in the Oleaceae family. It reaches around 15 m tall and 10 m wide at maturity, with deciduous, rich in autumn colour and purple-toned foliage.
Where to grow Claret Ash
Claret Ash suits cool-temperate, warm-temperate and Mediterranean climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Claret Ash does best in loamy, clay and free-draining soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Claret Ash is happy on low water, so once its roots are down it needs little supplementary water. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Claret Ash in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Claret Ash in the garden
Claret Ash earns its place for a shade tree, a feature or specimen planting and a windbreak.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Claret Ash with other plants that enjoy the same happy on low water and cool-temperate climate. Group three or five together for impact rather than dotting single plants through the garden.
Good to know
It is thornless and easy to handle.
Buying Claret Ash
Plant Sale lists Claret Ash as advanced specimens and bare-root stock. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it lands.