Green Ash Samara
Fraxinus pennsylvanica • Oleaceae
🌱 Seed Category
Tree
🌍 Origin Region
Native to eastern and central North America, widely naturalized across temperate regions.
📅 Days to Maturity
Tree species mature over 15 to 20 years to reach full size and seed-bearing capability; saplings grow relatively fast at 12 to 24 inches per year.
🌡️ Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 3a through 9b. Deciduous perennial tree capable of surviving temperatures down to -40°F (-40°C).
About This Seed
The image shows two winged seeds (samaras) of Green Ash. They are elongated, straw-yellow to tan-brown in color, featuring a paddle- or lance-shaped paper-like wing (key) with a notched apex surrounding a slender seed cavity at the base. The resulting plant is a large deciduous shade tree reaching 50 to 70 feet in height with a broad, rounded canopy, compound leaves, and gray-brown furrowed bark.
Growing Information
Growing Season
Sow in late autumn or early spring after cold stratification; deciduous tree growing throughout spring and summer.
Germination
Requires cold-moist stratification for 60 to 90 days at 33-40°F (1-4°C) to break seed dormancy. Germination takes 30-60 days after warming to 65-75°F (18-24°C). Rate typically ranges from 50% to 70%.
Planting Instructions
Plant samaras 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep in moist, well-draining nursery beds or deep containers. Space seeds 6 to 12 inches apart. Prefers rich, moist, loamy soils with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Requires Full Sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day). Moderate to high water needs; highly tolerant of wet soils and occasional flooding, but established trees possess moderate drought tolerance.
Companion Plants
Grows well alongside other wetland or floodplain native trees like Silver Maple (Acer saccharinum), American Elm (Ulmus americana), and River Birch (Betula nigra). Avoid planting near structures or sewer lines due to extensive root systems.
Special Characteristics
Highly adaptable to urban conditions, soil compaction, and poor drainage. Highly susceptible to Emerald Ash Borer (EAB), which poses a critical threat to wild and cultivated populations.