Chinese ash (Fraxinus chinensis)

Also known as: Chinese Ash

The Chinese tallow tree is a flowering species prevalent in China. This deciduous tree is cultivated primarily for the waxy coating on its seeds. It can reach a height of up to 15 meters.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Chinese ash

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Tree

Plant Height

10 m to 12 m

Spread

5-10 meters

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

Not applicable (flowers are small and inconspicuous)

Flower Color

Yellow Green

Images of Chinese ash

Quickly Identify Chinese ash

Chinese Ash can be identified by its opposite, pinnate leaves with 5-9 leaflets, gray-brown bark with shallow furrows, and winged samaras as its fruit.

Scientific Classification of Chinese ash

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Mints plantains olives and allies

Family

Olive

Genus

Ashes

Species

Chinese ash

Planting and Growing of Chinese ash

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 4 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-77℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Terracotta

How to Water Chinese ash?

For Fraxinus chinensis, water the plant until the soil is thoroughly moist, which is around 1000 ml per watering session. Make sure the water reaches the roots but does not saturate the soil.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Chinese ash? ›

What should I do if my Chinese ash is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Chinese ash? ›

How to save an overwatered Chinese ash? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Chinese ash?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 4-6 hours daily

Partial sun is ideal, as it ensures Fraxinus chinensis receives balanced sunlight, facilitating steady growth while avoiding stress, ultimately boosting its structural and aesthetic appeal.

What is the best lighting for Fraxinus chinensis? ›

How to provide ideal lighting solutions? ›

What benefits do ideal lighting conditions offer? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Chinese ash?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 77℉

For optimal growth, Fraxinus chinensis thrives in temperatures ranging from 60°F to 77°F. This range ensures the plant has the right amount of warmth for photosynthesis without being exposed to stress from excessive heat or cold.

What Soil is Best for Chinese ash?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Fraxinus chinensis thrives best in well-drained soil that prevents waterlogging. This condition ensures the roots receive adequate oxygen, leading to healthier growth and less risk of root diseases. This plant prefers soil of moderate fertility, which provides essential nutrients without the risk of over-fertilization. Balanced nutrition supports robust development and resistance to pests. The soil should retain moisture to sustain growth during the dry season, yet not be too dense to cause rot. This ensures continuous hydration for vigorous leaf and overall plant vitality.

How to Fertilize Chinese ash?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Fraxinus chinensis, applying the right amount of fertilizer is crucial for optimal growth. During the growing season, use 50-100 grams of balanced granular fertilizer per tree. Liquid fertilizers should be diluted to 1/4 strength before application. This amount ensures the tree receives adequate nutrients without excessive buildup in the soil.

How to Prune Chinese ash?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Choose sharp and clean pruning shears or a handsaw for larger branches. Proper tools prevent damage and ensure clean cuts, which is critical for the tree's healing process. Focus on removing dead, diseased, or crossing branches. Cut at a 45-degree angle just above a bud, which will promote upward growth and maintain an aesthetically pleasing shape. Start with larger branches and work your way to smaller ones. Avoid cutting more than a third of the tree at once to reduce stress on the tree. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Chinese ash plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early spring, Late spring

Gather mature seeds from a healthy specimen in autumn. Clean them of debris, and store in a cool, dry place until ready for sowing in spring.

For cuttings, choose a healthy branch and cut a section about 10-15 cm long. Ensure it has several leaves but remove the lower ones to expose nodes.

Choose a compatible rootstock and make an incision. Insert the scion, ensuring direct cambium contact. Secure tightly with grafting tape to promote union.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Chinese ash plant?

Repotting frequency: Every two to three years

Keep an eye out for signs like roots growing out of the drainage holes or the soil drying out too quickly after watering. These indicators show that the Fraxinus chinensis requires more space and nutrients, making repotting necessary to ensure healthy, sustained growth.

Select a pot that is 2-3 inches larger in diameter than the current one, ensuring it has sufficient drainage holes. The increased size allows the roots to spread and the drainage holes prevent excess water accumulation, reducing the risk of root rot.

Opt for well-draining loamy soil, rich in organic matter, providing essential nutrients and ensuring proper moisture balance, which is crucial for the ash tree’s healthy establishment and growth. This type of soil also facilitates root aeration.