The ash's common name, goes back to the Old English æsc, while
the generic name Fraxinus originated in Latin. Both words also
meant "spear" in their respective languages. European or Common Ash
(Fraxinus excelsior) can be distinguished by its black
buds. Other species have brown or grey buds. The wood is
classed as a hardwood, and used for making bows, tool handles,
electric guitar bodies and even Morgan sports car frames. Ash
veneers are used extensively in office furniture.
Watch out for the ditch at
the base of the tree.