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Algerian ash
Common name:
Algerian ashScientific name:
Fraxinus angustifoliaAlternative common names:
Ash, desert ash, narrow leaf ash.
The Algerian ash is a medium-sized, deciduous tree growing to 20–30m tall with a trunk up to 1.5m in diameter. It is not commonly planted anymore, however large numbers of adult trees can still be seen growing in suburban areas. The flowers are produced in inflorescences, which can be male, hermaphrodite or mixed male and hermaphrodite. Flowering occurs in early spring.
Additional Info
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Where does this species come from?
Central and Southern Europe, Northwest Africa and Southwest Asia.What is its invasive status in South Africa?
NEMBA Category 3.Where in South Africa is it a problem?
Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, Free State, Eastern Cape and Western Cape.How does it spread?
It reproduces by seed and also spreads laterally via root suckers. Pieces of stem and branches can also take root when they come into contact with moist soil (a process known as layering). The winged seeds are mainly dispersed by wind and in dumped garden waste. It is also thought to be spread by animals ( birds, foxes).Why is it a problem?
The Algerian ash outcompetes indigenous plants for moisture, light and nutrients, and can take over the vegetation in natural areas. Over time it forms dense monocultures, spreading via suckers and preventing the regeneration of indigenous species. It also invades roadsides and stream banks in cool regions.What does it look like?
Leaves: Compound leaves, 14-25cm long, have 5-13 elongated leaflets with toothed margins. Flowers: Inconspicuous flowers are borne in small branched clusters and do not have any sepals or petals. Fruit/seeds: Winged fruit, 3-5cm long, narrowly oval in shape and often slightly twisted.Does the plant have any uses?
It is cultivated as an ornamental shade and street tree.
General News Updates
2019 National Symposium on Biological Invasio…
26-02-2019
This is your invitation to South Africa's 2019 National Symposium on Biological Invasions. The convention is hosted by the Centre for Invasion Biology (CIB), University of Stellenbosch, and the Biolo... Read more
2019 Invasive Species Training
22-01-2019
During the past five years (2014-2018), ISSA invasive species trainers have trained 4 000 in the identification of invasive species and laws pertaining to invasive species across South Africa. ... Read more
Alien Grass Working Group
04-09-2018
Who are we? The South African National Alien Grass Working Group was jointly initiated by the South African Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) and the Centre for Excellence in Invasion Biology (C·I·B) in... Read more
Permits for planting indigenous Cynodon?
01-03-2018
On 16 February, 2018, South Africa's Department of Environmental Affairs issued amendments to the regulations and lists relating to the National List of Invasive Species. Updates to the draft&n... Read more
Invasive species training 2018 dates released
28-02-2018
Interested in invasive species? How much do you know about NEMBA invasive species compliance for landowners and organs of state? The South African Green Industries Council (SAGIC) have released... Read more
Communications post for Africa advertised
25-01-2018
The Nature Conservancy has advertised a brand new post: Communications Manager, Africa Region. Knowledge of invasive species and water would be an asset in this post. See details below: Job Titl... Read more
Atlantis Aquifer Invasive Plant Control
The Nature Conservancy Director of Water Funds for South Africa, Louise Stafford, is inviting invasive species teams, mentors and experts to submit proposals for an invasive species clearing project in Atlantis, Western Cape. The…
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"Enormous progress has been made on removing invasive alien vegetation in the catchment area around Wemmershoek Dam", says Executive Mayor, Patricia de Lille, City of Cape Town. "Invasive alien vegetation around…
Invasive species clearing campaign in Jukskei Park
Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo launched National Invasive Species Week initiatives on Thursday 12 October, 2017 in Juweel Park, Jukskei Park, Randburg, Gauteng. National Invasive Species Week is an awareness campaign…
Sign up for Invasive Species Training this November ...
The last two sessions of SAGIC Invasive Species legislation and herbicide applicator’s course in 2017 will take place in November. Are you interested in flora and fauna? How much do you…
