Shamel Ash

Plant Type: tree
Plant Height: 40-80 feet
Spread: 40-60 feet
Flower Color: 
Sun Exposure: Full Sun

Shamel Ash (Fraxinus uhdei): The Ideal Shade Tree for Warm Climates

The Shamel Ash, also known as the Evergreen Ash or Tropical Ash and scientifically identified as Fraxinus uhdei, is a highly popular, fast-growing tree ideal for urban and suburban landscapes in warmer climates. This large, deciduous tree is native to Mexico and Central America and has been widely appreciated for its expansive shade, lush foliage, and adaptability to a variety of environments.

Key Features of the Shamel Ash

• Impressive Height and Canopy: Known for its rapid growth, the Shamel Ash can reach heights of 40 to 80 feet, with a spread that complements its height, forming a broad, rounded canopy. This dense, wide canopy of dark green foliage makes it an excellent shade tree for areas where cooling and cover are needed.

• Beautiful Foliage and Form: The pinnately compound leaves give the tree a fine, textured look, enhancing the lush green appearance throughout the growing season. The tree’s graceful branches form an attractive, rounded shape, adding elegance to landscapes.

• Wildlife Attraction: In spring, the Shamel Ash produces small, inconspicuous flowers, which are soon followed by samaras (winged fruit) that attract birds and small wildlife, enhancing the ecosystem and creating a lively atmosphere in gardens and public areas.

Adaptability and Care Requirements

The Shamel Ash is highly adaptable, making it a low-maintenance choice for many landscape settings:

• Sun and Soil: This tree thrives in full sun and can adapt to a variety of well-draining soils, from sandy to clay-rich soils, making it versatile for different landscape needs.

• Drought Tolerance: Once established, the Shamel Ash displays remarkable drought tolerance, an ideal feature for regions where water conservation is important. While it can withstand dry spells, occasional deep watering during extended droughts helps maintain its lush foliage and vibrant appearance.

• Maintenance and Pruning: Although generally low-maintenance, periodic pruning is recommended to control the tree's shape and remove any dead, damaged, or diseased limbs. Regular pruning helps keep the tree healthy and manageable, especially in smaller landscapes or near structures.

Landscaping Uses for Shamel Ash

With its rapid growth and generous shade, the Shamel Ash is a top choice for various landscape applications:

• Street and Park Tree: This tree is commonly used along streets and in parks due to its large size and ability to provide ample shade for pedestrians, vehicles, and recreational areas.

• Specimen Tree in Gardens and Public Spaces: As a specimen tree, the Shamel Ash brings instant impact and grandeur to large gardens, campuses, and open public spaces, enhancing the green aesthetic of any setting.

• Residential Landscapes: When space permits, the Shamel Ash is perfect for residential landscapes needing large-scale shade, reducing energy costs by cooling outdoor areas, patios, and homes in warmer climates.

Considerations for Planting Shamel Ash

While the Shamel Ash is a beautiful and practical choice for many landscapes, its large size and vigorous growth should be considered when selecting a planting location. This tree’s strong root system and expansive canopy mean it should be planted away from foundations, sidewalks, and other structures. By giving it the space it needs, you ensure its roots and branches can develop without interference, preserving both the tree’s health and nearby structures.

Why Choose Shamel Ash for Arizona and Other Warm Regions?

The Shamel Ash is a resilient, attractive tree that adapts well to Arizona’s climate, providing shade, greenery, and ecosystem benefits with relatively low maintenance. Its rapid growth, hardiness in various soils, and drought tolerance make it an environmentally friendly choice for desert and warm, semi-arid landscapes.

Add Value and Comfort with Shamel Ash
For those seeking a hardy, visually appealing tree with substantial shade and minimal upkeep, the Shamel Ash is an excellent choice. Its unique blend of beauty, practicality, and ease of care make it a favored option for transforming residential, public, and commercial spaces into cool, green retreats.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Shamel Ash

Planting Guide:

• Location: Full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight for optimal growth)
• Soil: Well-drained, sandy or loamy soil (slightly acidic to neutral soil preferred)
• Spacing: Space trees 15-20 feet apart to allow for optimal growth and air circulation
• Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as the root ball, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil surface
• Support: Shamel Ash is a large, self-supporting tree that requires no staking and grows into a canopy with a broad, spreading form

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water thoroughly immediately after planting to saturate the root ball and surrounding soil
• Frequency: Water every 5-6 days for the first 2-3 weeks to help establish the root system
• Watering Amount: Provide 3-4 inches of water per session for deep watering

When is the Plant Established?

• Timeframe: Shamel Ash is considered established after 6-8 months when the roots have spread into the surrounding soil

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Water every 10-14 days during the hotter months. If temperatures exceed 100°F, increase watering to every 7-10 days. Provide 4-5 inches of water per session.
• Winter: Water every 4-6 weeks during the cooler months, depending on rainfall.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

• Placement of Emitters: Place the drip emitters 18-24 inches away from the base of the tree for deep watering
• Flow Rate: Use emitters with a flow rate of 3-5 gallons per hour
• Number of Emitters: 2-3 emitters per tree for even watering distribution
• Adjusting Frequency: In summer, increase watering frequency to every 7-10 days. In winter, reduce to every 4-6 weeks