Fraxinus anomala Family: Oleaceae – Olive Family Fraxinus anomala (Singleleaf ash) is the only species from this family represented at Arches National Park. Deciduous trees 8.3' to 13.2' (2.5 to 4 m) tall Leaves: opposite; simple; waxy coating on outside; egg-shaped; slightly toothed; 0.6” to 3.4” (1.5 to 8.5 cm) long, 0.4” to 3” (1 to 7.5 cm) wide Flowers: 0 petals; 4 yellow to whitish lobed sepals; 2 distinct stamens; 1 pistil; flowers usually perfect Pollinators: other Fraxinus species are pollinated by wind Fruits: papery samara (winged fruit) Blooms in Arches National Park: March, April, May Habitat in Arches National Park: desert shrub and pinyon-juniper communities Location seen: widespread, park road mile 0 to 2.5, Park Avenue, Courthouse Towers, Fiery Furnace, Tower Arch Other: The genus name, “Fraxinus”, is the classical Latin name for this genus and the species name, “anomala”, means “anomaly” which refers to this unique species of ash that does not have compound leaves. The stout wood was used as digging sticks and tool handles by settlers and Native Americans. |
Last updated: October 9, 2022