Alternative Name(s): Formerly known botanically as Fraxinus oxycarpa. Family: Oleaceae Form: Tree Origin: Native to Western Mediterranean and Portugal Weed Type(s): Naturalised, Environmental Weed

Notes: Desert ash is a spreading deciduous tree growing to a height of 10-12 m. Leaves consist of seven leaflets with toothed margins. Inconspicuous flowers appear in winter when the tree is bare. Flowers are wind-pollinated. Seeds are winged which aids dispersal by wind. Desert ash will also spread from root suckers.

Desert ash has been widely used as a street and park tree in South Australia and the ACT where it has become naturalised. It is also naturalised in NSW and Victoria, invading riparian systems, lowland grassland and grassy woodland.

References:

Randall, R. P. (2002). A Global Compendium of Weeds. R. G. & F.J. Richardson, Melbourne.
Spencer, R. (2002). Horticultural Flora of South-Eastern Australia Vol 4. University of New South Wales Press, Sydney.