Lance-leaved ash

Family Oleaceae. Native to the eastern part of North America, from where it was introduced into cultivation in the 18th century and became widely distributed. Occurs in deciduous forests (sometimes forming pure stands), along stream banks, on moist uplands.

Very ornamental with a slender trunk, a compact crown, and glossy, dark green leaves, paler beneath. Reaches 15 m in height. Characterized by fairly rapid growth and high drought tolerance. Less demanding of soil than other species, more resilient in urban conditions. Cold-hardy.