Manna Ash

fraxinus ornus

Also known as: ["Manna Tree","Syringa Ash"]

Family: Oleaceae Genus: Fraxinus Category: Trees

Overview

A deciduous tree known for its fragrant white flowers and production of manna, a sugar-rich sap used historically for medicinal purposes.

Benefits & Perks

["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Lamiales
Family: Oleaceae
Genus: Fraxinus
Botanical Name: Fraxinus ornus

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Trees
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden, prefers space for growth
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–10 to 35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only in very dry conditions
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining loam with organic matter; tolerates poor soils.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning as needed year-round.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if rejuvenation is needed.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in summer; adjust placement based on light intensity.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves (overwatering); stunted growth (poor soil fertility); root rot (poor drainage).

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Avoid direct midday sun in summer; rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid waterlogging.

Soil

well-drained, loamy soil

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter; avoid compacted soil.

Temperature

Hardy in USDA zones 6–9; prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts.

Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; adjust watering for heat.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer

Fertilize once a year in spring; dilute liquid fertilizer to half strength if needed; stop fertilizing in fall.

Propagation

Methods

Softwood cuttings in summer; seeds (stratification required for germination).

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take cuttings.
  2. Apply rooting hormone.
  3. Plant in medium.
  4. Maintain humidity.
  5. Wait for roots.

Best Time: Late spring to early summer for cuttings; autumn for seeds (stratification needed).

Environment

Warm, humid environment (70–75°F); indirect light for cuttings.

Medium

Perlite and peat mix; well-draining soil for cuttings.

Hormone

Rooting hormone recommended for cuttings.

Timeline

Cuttings root in 4–8 weeks; seed germination takes 3–6 months with stratification.

Tools Needed

Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Thinning cuts to open the canopy; heading cuts to control size.

Pruning Plan

Remove dead or diseased wood; shape for air circulation; encourage healthy growth.

Tools

Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches).

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune dead/diseased wood; make clean cuts; avoid over-pruning.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before new growth begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.

Method

Remove old soil; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years for container-grown plants; field-grown trees rarely need repotting.

Checklist

Choose right-sized pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a soaker hose to deliver water directly to the roots, minimizing leaf wetness.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add compost or well-rotted manure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Leaf scorch in excessive heat; leaf drop or dieback in prolonged cold.

Cold Stress

Leaves may wilt, turn yellow, or drop; growth slows or halts in freezing temperatures.

Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect from cold winds; move container plants indoors if temperatures drop below 20°F (-6°C).

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to heat stress.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid late-season feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid over-fertilizing, especially in late summer.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Fraxinus ornus can indicate nutrient deficiencies, water stress, or disease, such as ash yellows or verticillium wilt, which disrupt chlorophyll production and photosynthesis.

Wilting in Fraxinus ornus is often a sign of water stress, either due to drought or root issues like root rot, which impairs water uptake and transport within the plant.

Leaf spots on Fraxinus ornus are typically caused by fungal pathogens such as Marssonina or Phoma, leading to defoliation, reduced photosynthesis, and weakened plant vigor.

Rotting in Fraxinus ornus, particularly root or crown rot, is commonly caused by fungal pathogens like Armillaria or Phytophthora, leading to decay of plant tissues and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Fraxinus ornus. The plant is not considered highly toxic to cats but can cause mild discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea depression
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. Seek veterinary advice if ingestion is suspected or symptoms occur.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Fraxinus ornus seeds and leaves can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not highly toxic to dogs but can cause discomfort if consumed in significant quantities.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep dogs from chewing or ingesting parts of the plant. Contact a veterinarian if symptoms persist.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Fraxinus ornus, commonly known as the flowering ash, contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and allergic reactions in humans. The toxic effects are generally not severe but can be problematic for individuals with sensitivities.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea skin irritation
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of seeds and leaves. Wash hands after handling the plant to prevent skin irritation.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the Manna Ash tree toxic to pets?

A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.

Q: What is the primary use of the Manna Ash?

A: It is primarily valued for its fragrant flowers and the production of manna, a sap used in traditional medicine.

Q: How difficult is it to care for a Manna Ash tree?

A: It requires moderate care, including proper watering and occasional pruning, making it suitable for intermediate gardeners.

Quick Reference
Family: Oleaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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