Arizona Ash

Arizona Ash is a short-lived, fast-growing ash that provides dappled shade. Trunks branch fairly low to the ground; the leaves and twigs have noticeable “velvet” hairs. (“Fan-Tex” is a variety developed by Fanick’s Nursery in San Antonio, with drought-hardy form and thicker, smoother leaves.)

Though often derided as a “trash tree,” Arizona ash’s problems can be partially chalked up to its short lifespan and its overuse; in the 20th century, it was an instant tree to put square in the middle of a new lawn. It is often too large for small sites.