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$35.00
Fraxinus ornus
Deciduous compact tree growing to an average of about 9 m x 6 m, but sometimes up to 25m tall, at a medium to slow rate, and noted for its longevity and robust growth. Native to the Mediterranean, South-central Europe and Southwestern Asia, but also grown much further north. The Manna Ash gets its name from the sweet sap that can be extracted from the trunk, known as “manna,” which has been used traditionally as a natural sweetener and in medicine.
The species is also sometimes called “flowering ash” as it bears a profusion of very ornamental fluffy, scented white flowers in the spring. These are followed by 15-25 mm long winged seeds, known as samaras, which may persist on tree through winter. Autumn colour is also stunning, with the pinnate leaves turning yellow to red-purple. Plants are generally androdioecious (trees can have hermaphrodite flowers or have flowers with only functional male organs, so behaving as male plants. Both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required; our plants are seed grown and unsexed). Flowers are scented and attract a variety of pollinating insects (mainly bees and beetles), even though they do not produce nectar, and can be pollinated by either these or insects or by wind. Frost hardy.
PB8 100-110cm
Manna Ash thrives in sunny areas with hot summers and mild winters, and is often associated with the Mediterranean scrubland. It is tolerant of a wide range of soil types and moisture but does better in drier spots than some of the other ash species, only requiring between 500 and 650 mm of annual rainfall, and has good drought resistance once established. It prefers a position in full sun where it will grow taller, although in its native habitat of mixed broadleaved forests it also behaves as a shrub in the understorey. It can tolerate strong winds but not maritime exposure, and is also tolerant of atmospheric pollution.
Manna Ash has long been used in traditional medicine to aid digestion, soothe inflammation, and support skin health. It has a rich and complex phytochemical profile, with the sap containing a variety of bioactive compounds that work synergistically to impart antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and soothing properties. It contains Mannitol, known for its mild laxative, regulation of digestive processes and natural diuretic properties. Additionally, its antioxidant characteristics help neutralize free radicals, contributing to cellular protection and overall detoxification, hence its use as a key ingredient in skin care formulations.
The sap also contains simple sugars, which provide a quick source of energy and facilitate the absorption of other nutrients, creating a boost without causing rapid blood sugar spikes. Flavanoids in the sap help to reduce inflammation and improve immune function.
Traditionally, the bark was traditionally used as an antiparasitic, antihelmintic (dewormer) and insect repellent. In the eighteenth century, the ash bark was known as the “quinine of Europe” for its antifebrile and antimalarial actions. It has been proven to contain compounds which have significant antimicrobial, antioxidative, sun damage prevention, wound healing, anti-inflammatory, immuno-modulatory and antiviral activities. It also contains Esculin, which is known to act as a choleretic agent for stimulating bile flow and aiding digestion, hence its use in the digestive formula, Swedish Bitters. It also has noted activity for preventing the development of abnormal growths.
Primary Actions: antimicrobial, antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, immuno-modulatory, antiviral, vulnerary, antiparasitic, antihelmintic, detoxification, laxative, diuretic
Parts Used: sap, bark
N.B. Shipping costs are added AFTER you have placed your order, you will then be emailed an invoice with bank details.
Smallest box rate:
This can fit up to 9 plants in 9cm pots.
Shipping a single tree can be expensive. We may be able to fit more in the box for the same price! See our shipping rates for single and multi tree boxes.
Combining sizes?
No problem, we will work out the best rate for you once you’ve placed your order.
Jo has a passion for growing herbs but is not a qualified herbalist and has no medical background.
We are lucky to have Patricia Beagle working here at times, who is qualified, and some of her advice does appear on these pages, but herbs act differently for different people and can interact with other medicines. We therefore always recommend that you consult with your own qualified health-care practitioner before using herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing or on any medications.
Kahikatea Farm cannot take any responsibility for any adverse effects from the use of the plants or a plant not having the effect it is reputed to have.
