Raywood Ash

Plant Type: Deciduous Shade Tree
Plant Height: 30-45 feet
Spread: 25-35 feet
Flower Color: Inconspicuous (grown for foliage and shade)
Sun Exposure: Full sun

Raywood Ash: Deep Green Foliage with Striking Fall Color

The Raywood Ash (Fraxinus velutina ‘Raywood’) is a refined cultivar of the Arizona Ash, prized for its dense canopy, fine-textured foliage, and brilliant fall color. Unlike other ash varieties, the Raywood Ash is known for its deep green summer leaves that turn rich burgundy to purple in autumn, offering one of the most vibrant seasonal displays among shade trees in Arizona landscapes. With a naturally symmetrical, rounded form, it delivers both elegance and practicality.

Key Features of Raywood Ash

• Unique Fall Color: Leaves turn a deep burgundy to purple in fall, unlike other golden-yellow ash types.
• Dense, Rounded Canopy: Provides reliable summer shade with fine-textured foliage.
• Improved Structure: Stronger branching habit compared to standard Arizona Ash.
• Heat Adapted: Performs well in full sun with regular deep watering.

Growing and Care Tips

• Soil: Prefers well-drained soils; tolerates sandy and rocky conditions.
• Water: Moderate during establishment; deep watering improves canopy health.
• Pruning: Minimal—light shaping as needed to maintain balance and reduce crowded growth.
• Cold Tolerance: Hardy to about 15–20°F; reliable in Phoenix Valley winters.

Landscaping Uses

• Shade Tree: Excellent for yards, patios, and outdoor spaces needing cooling shade.
• Accent Tree: Provides dramatic fall color in Arizona landscapes.
• Street Tree: Uniform form makes it suitable for public plantings.
• Seasonal Interest: Offers a rare purple fall foliage option in desert-friendly shade trees.

Summary

The Raywood Ash stands out among ash trees with its elegant rounded canopy, refined structure, and brilliant purple fall foliage. For Arizona homeowners seeking both fast shade and seasonal drama, it’s one of the most attractive options available.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow):

Raywood Ash Planting Guide

Location: Full sun for fastest growth and richest fall color.
Soil: Well-drained soils; amend clay with compost if needed.
Spacing: Plant 25-35 feet apart to allow for mature canopy spread.
Planting Depth: Place root ball level with surrounding soil; firm gently.
Support: Stake young trees for the first year until roots establish.

Watering Guide

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Deeply water immediately after planting.
• Frequency: Every 2-3 days for the first 2 weeks, then weekly for 2-3 months.
• Amount: Provide 8-12 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; increase to weekly during extreme heat.
• Winter: Water every 4-6 weeks if rainfall is lacking.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

• Placement of Emitters: 18-24 inches from trunk, expanding outward with canopy.
• Flow Rate: 2-4 gallons per hour emitters recommended.
• Number of Emitters: 3-4 per tree, adding more as it matures.
• Adjusting Frequency: Increase watering in hot months and reduce in cool/rainy periods.

General Watering Tips for Raywood Ash

• Soil Check: Water when soil is dry 4-6 inches deep.
• Encourage Fall Color: Consistent deep watering improves leaf health and enhances color intensity.
• Avoid Overwatering: Too much water may reduce fall color and weaken roots.
• Mulch: Apply gravel or organic mulch to conserve soil moisture and protect roots.

⚠️ Note for Customers: Like other Arizona Ash cultivars, the Raywood Ash has a lifespan of around 30–40 years. Regular deep watering and pruning help extend its health and enhance its dramatic fall display.