Fraxinus ornus - Hardwood,Medicinal Herbs - Flowering Ash Page

Fraxinus ornus, also known as Manna Ash or South European Flowering Ash, is a beautiful deciduous tree that is native to southern Europe and southwestern Asia. It can grow to a height of 15-25 meters with a trunk diameter of up to 1 meter. The bark is dark grey and remains smooth even on older trees. The buds are pale pinkish-brown to grey-brown, covered in short grey hairs.

The leaves are arranged in opposite pairs and are pinnate, measuring 20-30 cm in length. They consist of 5-9 leaflets that are broad ovoid in shape, measuring 5-10 cm in length and 2-4 cm in width. The leaflets have a finely serrated and wavy margin, with short but distinct petiolules measuring 5-15 mm in length. The autumn color of the leaves varies from yellow to purplish.

In late spring, after the new leaves have appeared, Fraxinus ornus produces dense panicles of attractive, frilly white or pale yellow flowers with four slender creamy white petals measuring 5-6 mm in length. These flowers are pollinated by insects. The tree also produces slender samara fruits that are 1.5-2.5 cm long, with green wings that ripen to brown.

Fraxinus ornus is often cultivated as an ornamental tree throughout Europe north of its native range due to its decorative flowers. It is sometimes referred to as "Flowering Ash". In some cases, cultivated specimens are grafted onto rootstocks of Fraxinus excelsior, resulting in a noticeable change in the bark at the graft line.

Not only is Fraxinus ornus a visually appealing tree, but it also has practical uses. A sugary extract, known as manna, can be obtained from the sap of the tree by making a cut in the bark. This extract was compared to the biblical manna, giving rise to the English name of the tree. The manna extract has a mild sweet taste and is often used as a gentle laxative. It is also used as a sweetener in sugar-free preparations and as an anti-caking agent.

Overall, Fraxinus ornus is a versatile and attractive tree that adds beauty to any landscape. Its decorative flowers, smooth bark, and practical uses make it a popular choice for gardens and parks across Europe.