White Ash
Fraxinus americana
Usually five to nine leaflets, commonly seven; undersides are often whitish or noticeably paler.
Compare similar trees
White Ash & Green Ash
Both have opposite, compound leaves and overlapping bark patterns. Mature samaras offer a stronger distinction when fruit is available.
Observe from a permitted path. Use attached or naturally fallen material without picking or peeling. Photographs show individual examples, not every variation or a common scale.
Leaves
Count whole leaves at the twig, not leaflets. Leaflet number and color overlap; these photographs do not show every underside.
Green ash
Fraxinus pennsylvanica
Usually five to nine leaflets too; undersides tend to be pale green, with very short leaflet stalks.
Bark
Bark alone does not reliably separate these ashes. Examine leaves and fallen fruit as well.
White Ash
Fraxinus americana
Mature bark often forms interlacing ridges and a diamond-like pattern.
Green ash
Fraxinus pennsylvanica
Mature bark also forms intersecting ridges and diamond-shaped furrows.
Winged fruits
Compare mature, naturally fallen samaras. Only female trees bear fruit, so its absence does not settle identity. Images are not at a common scale.
White Ash
Fraxinus americana
The wing attaches near the end of a relatively plump seed body and extends little along its sides.
Green ash
Fraxinus pennsylvanica
The seed body is narrower, with the wing extending farther alongside it.
Look again before you decide.
These clues compare this pair; other species, hybrids, age, and growing conditions can complicate identification. If the features disagree, keep observing and consult a local field guide or knowledgeable person.
Botanical references checked October 10, 2026. NC State Extension: White Ash · Green ash.
Additional botanical references: USDA: White ash plant guide · Oregon State University: Green ash.