Tree Trail

29. Fraxinus excelsior

The common ash is a member of the olive family and is native to mainland Europe. It can grow to 43 metres (141 feet) tall. This superb example was around 30 metres (100 feet) high but recently had to be reduced when a large split was discovered in the trunk. They can live up to 250 years. The wood was traditionally used for making bows, tool handles and snooker cues. It was also used in early aircraft construction. Nowadays it is more commonly used in furniture making and flooring.