European Ash
Fraxinus excelsior
European Ash is one of Europe's most valuable hardwoods, prized for centuries for its unique combination of strength, flexibility, and shock resistance. It has been the traditional choice for tool handles, sports equipment, and bent furniture, though the species now faces severe decline due to ash dieback disease spreading across Europe.
Botanical Profile
Fraxinus excelsior is a large deciduous tree reaching 20-35 meters in height with a tall, straight trunk and broad crown. Native throughout Europe, it features compound leaves with 7-13 leaflets and distinctive black buds. The species thrives in moist, well-drained soils and can live for 250 years or more.
Physical Properties
The heartwood is pale cream to light brown with a coarse texture and prominent growth rings that create attractive figure when quartersawn. Density averages 710 kg/m³ when dried with a Janka hardness of 1,480 lbf, making it slightly harder than its American cousin. The wood combines excellent strength with flexibility and toughness.
Workshop Notes
Blunting Effect
Low to moderate - generally kind to cutting edges
Gluing Advice
Good gluing properties
Finishing
Good - accepts stains and finishes well, can benefit from grain filler
Steam Bending
Excellent steam bending characteristics, traditional choice for bent work
Historical Context
European Ash has been used since ancient times for weapons, tool handles, and agricultural implements. It was sacred in Norse mythology as Yggdrasil, the world tree. Traditional uses include Windsor chair making, ladder rungs, and sports equipment. The current ash dieback epidemic threatens to eliminate most European ash trees within decades.
Technical Specs
Threatened by ash dieback disease, declining availability