Fan-Tex Ash

Plant Type: Deciduous Shade Tree
Plant Height: 30-40 feet
Spread: 25-35 feet
Flower Color: Inconspicuous (valued for foliage and shade)
Sun Exposure: Full sun

Fan-Tex Ash: Superior Shade with Stronger Structure

The Fan-Tex Ash (Fraxinus velutina ‘Fan-Tex’) is a specially selected variety of the Arizona Ash, bred for improved structure, stronger branching, and more uniform canopy growth. This fast-growing deciduous shade tree is prized for its broad, rounded crown, lush green foliage, and golden fall color. With greater resistance to weak branch problems that can occur in standard Arizona Ash, the Fan-Tex Ash offers a more durable option for homeowners who want fast shade in Arizona landscapes.

Key Features of Fan-Tex Ash

• Improved Cultivar: Stronger branching and cleaner form compared to common Arizona Ash.
• Fast-Growing Shade: Establishes quickly to provide cooling shade for homes and outdoor areas.
• Seasonal Beauty: Bright green foliage in spring and summer with yellow fall color.
• Adapted to Heat: Thrives in full Arizona sun when watered deeply and regularly.

Growing and Care Tips

• Soil: Performs well in most well-drained soils; amend clay-heavy soils with compost.
• Water: Moderate during establishment; deep, infrequent watering once mature.
• Pruning: Minimal—thin branches in winter to maintain strong canopy structure.
• Cold Tolerance: Hardy to about 0°F; reliable across Arizona and the Southwest.

Landscaping Uses

• Shade Tree: Ideal for cooling patios, homes, and yards with its wide canopy.
• Accent Tree: Works well as a centerpiece in larger residential landscapes.
• Street or Park Tree: Improved branching structure makes it useful in public plantings.
• Seasonal Interest: Offers lush greenery followed by golden fall color.

Summary

The Fan-Tex Ash is an upgraded version of the Arizona Ash, providing the same quick shade and seasonal appeal but with a stronger, more durable structure. Perfect for Arizona homeowners, it balances fast growth with improved longevity and lower maintenance.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow):

Fan-Tex Ash Planting Guide

Location: Full sun for strongest growth and canopy density.
Soil: Well-drained soil; amend with compost for best performance.
Spacing: Plant 25-35 feet apart to allow mature canopy spread.
Planting Depth: Place root ball level with surrounding soil; firm gently.
Support: Stake young trees for the first 1-2 years until roots anchor securely.

Watering Guide

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Deeply water after planting.
• Frequency: Every 2-3 days for the first 2 weeks, then weekly for 2-3 months.
• Amount: Provide 10-15 gallons per watering for young trees.

When is the Plant Established?

• Timeframe: Typically 9-12 months in Arizona’s climate.

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Deep water every 10-14 days; weekly in extreme heat for best foliage.
• Winter: Water every 4-6 weeks if rainfall is absent.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

• Placement of Emitters: 18-24 inches from trunk, expanding outward as canopy spreads.
• Flow Rate: 2-4 gallons per hour emitters recommended.
• Number of Emitters: 3-5 per tree, increasing with maturity.
• Adjusting Frequency: Increase in summer; reduce in winter.

General Watering Tips for Fan-Tex Ash

• Soil Check: Water when soil is dry 4-6 inches deep.
• Promote Longevity: Deep, infrequent watering strengthens roots and canopy.
• Prune for Structure: Annual thinning helps maintain healthy branching.
• Mulch: Apply gravel or organic mulch around the base to conserve moisture and protect roots.

⚠️ Note for Customers: Like other Arizona Ash selections, the Fan-Tex Ash has a lifespan of about 30–40 years. It is a strong, fast-growing option for those seeking quick shade, but homeowners should plan long-term landscapes with its lifespan in mind.