Modesto Ash

Fraxinus velutina 'Modesto'

Light

Water

Moderate to high water needs in Phoenix. Water deeply across the root zone, allowing the upper soil to dry between irrigations. Established trees still need regular summer irrigation; avoid frequent, shallow watering.

Size

40-50 ft tall × 40-50 ft wide

Habit

Upright tree – single-trunk

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Description

A fast-growing Arizona ash cultivar with a broad canopy, dense summer shade, and yellow fall foliage. Adapted to desert heat but needs regular irrigation to thrive in Phoenix.

Bloom Time

Spring

Deciduous / Evergreen

Deciduous

Special Features

Fall Color, Fast Growing

Growth Rate

Moderate to fast

Growth Habit

Upright tree – single-trunk

Mature Size

40-50 ft tall × 40-50 ft wide

Flower Color

Foliage Color

Landscape Use

Garden Style

Soil

Alkaline Tolerant, Clay Tolerant, Well-Drained

Companion Plants

Autumn sage, Deer grass

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Care Instructions

Light: Full sun; allow ample space for canopy development.

Water: Moderate to high water needs in Phoenix. Water deeply across the root zone, allowing the upper soil to dry between irrigations. Established trees still need regular summer irrigation; avoid frequent, shallow watering.

Soil: Well-drained soil; tolerates clay, loam, and moderately alkaline conditions. Compacted soil, poor drainage, and excessive alkalinity can impair growth.

Mature size: Typically 40–50 feet tall and 30–40 feet wide; potentially larger under favorable conditions.

Bloom: Small, inconspicuous flowers in early spring, usually before the leaves emerge.

Evergreen / deciduous: Deciduous.

Growth rate: Fast with adequate water and suitable soil.