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Ash
Fraximus excelsior
This species is a native member of the Olive family and is well distributed on the Kinson Common. It can grow to a height of 20m or more. On the Common it is usually noted as a small woodland tree.
The trunk is long and straight and in the winter the twigs of this species have a distinct grey hue with large noticeable black buds. The leaves are pinnate with up to seven pairs of leaflets. In the autumn, each tree sheds vast quantities of fruits which are known as "keys" or samaras.
Ash wood is strong and pliable and has been used to make shafts for hand tools and even boat oars. During the time when animals of all descriptions were grazed on the Common, the leaves of the Ash would have been browsed by them.
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