Fraxinus Angustifgolia 'Raywood'

Claret Ash / Raywood Ash

Botanical Name: Fraxinus angustifolia ‘Raywood’ (Claret Ash)
Family: Oleaceae
Origin: Southern Europe & Western Asia (cultivar selected in South Australia)
Plant Type: Deciduous tree

Overview

Claret Ash is a standout feature and avenue tree for South Australian landscapes. It brings a cool mid-green summer canopy that turns spectacular claret/burgundy in autumn, creating show-stopping seasonal colour with minimal fuss. Tough, shade-giving and fast to establish — ideal for streets, large lawns and driveway avenues.

Key Features

• Mature Size: 10–15 m H × 6–10 m W (smaller in tough, dry sites)
• Growth Rate: 40-80 cm per year under good conditions
• Foliage: Fine, glossy mid-green pinnate leaves; strong, symmetrical head; brilliant claret-red autumn colour
• Flowers: Inconspicuous greenish spring flowers; winged samaras may follow
  
• Seasonal Interest: Cool green summer shade; exceptional autumn colour; sculptural winter framework
• Wildlife Value: Canopy provides shade/shelter; samaras may feed birds; good urban habitat
• Tolerance: Drought-tolerant (once established), heat-tolerant, wind-tolerant, clay-tolerant; second-line coastal-tolerant; frost hardy
• Planting Density: Avenue/specimen: allow 5–8 m between trees (1 tree per 25–64 m²) for mature canopy
• Pet Friendly: Yes — generally regarded as non-toxic to pets (ingestion of any plant material may cause mild tummy upset)

Where It Works Best

• Sunlight: Full sun (essential for best form and colour)
• Soil: Well-drained loam, sandy loam or clay loam; avoid prolonged waterlogging
• Water Needs: Establishment: 2 deep soaks/week for 8–12 weeks. Established: deep soak every 10–14 days in summer; monthly in winter if dry
• Maintenance: Mulch wide; formative prune in winter to a balanced framework; remove low limbs as needed for clearance; light feed in early spring if growth is slow
• Lifespan: 50–100+ years
• Climate Zones: Suited to temperate and Mediterranean SA gardens/streetscapes, including many inland/coastal suburbs (away from direct salt spray)
• Soil pH: Acid, Neutral, Alkaline — adaptable

Landscape & Design Ideas

• Avenue/driveway planting for dramatic autumn colour and summer shade
• Specimen on lawns or large garden beds; pairs beautifully with ornamental grasses
• Street and park tree where dependable structure and colour are desired

Why You Will Love It

A proven SA performer delivering fast shade and jaw-dropping claret autumn colour with low maintenance. Claret Ash adds instant stature, seasonal drama and long-term value to larger gardens and avenues.