English Ash Wood
English Ash Wood is classed as a hardwood and has played an integral part of the British landscapes for centuries. Also known as ‘Fraxinus Excelsior’, the Ash tree has distinctive features that make it very easy to identify. Ash Wood is ideal for bending and can be manipulated to be used for handmade curved furniture.
How To Identify Ash Wo0d
During the early years of an Ash Tree, the bark tends to be smooth with a pale grey colouring.
The weight of Ash wood is considered as light in comparison to other types of wood. However, despite being lightweight, the wood from the Ash tree is considerably strong. These 2 characteristics make Ash Wood a very popular choice for a range of applications, including tool handles, baseball bats and of course, furniture.
English Name – English, Common or European Ash
Scientific Name – Fraxinus Excelsior
Type of Wood – Hard Wood
Ash Tree Size – up to 35m (115 ft) tall
Trunk Diameter – Up to 2 m(6 ft)
Spread – 18 – 27 metres (60 – 90 ft)
UK Location – Widespread, very common
Ash Wood Colour
During the early years of an Ash Tree, the bark tends to be smooth with a pale grey colouring.
The colour of matured ash wood is much paler in contrast to other types. The wood is light in colour with a light, creamy brown and coarse texture .
Ash Wood Leaves
The leaves of an Ash Tree are symmetrical and arranged in 2 pairs along the stem. There are typically between 5 and 11 leaves per stem with 1 leaf growing at the very tip. Incredibly, the leaves of the Ash tree can follow the direction of the sunlight. Addirionally, the Ash tree is known to lean towards the orientation of the sun.
Ash Texture & Design
The texture of Ash Wood is fine and smooth. Due to this, ash wood is able to be used for a huge variety of purposes. In particular, ash wood responds well to being used for complicated shaping, cutting and is compatible with most, if not all, finishing processes. The grain of this wood run in a uniform and straight line.
Where is Ash Wood Found?
The Ash tree is the third most popular tree in Great Britain. The tree grows best in colder climates and It can also be found in most of Europe, Asia, Africa and North America.
Ash Wood Colour
When Ash trees have matured, the bark has a distinctive diamond shaped or zigzag pattern. When the tree is much younger, the bark is somewhat smooth to the touch.
Wood Types Comparison Table
| Wood Type | Appearance | Durability | Finish Options | Best For | Style & Character |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Character Grade Oak | Knots, splits, grain variation; rustic charm | Extremely durable | Lacquer, Oil, Wax | Farmhouse-style tables, rustic designs | Unique, full of personality |
| Prime English Oak | Clean, uniform grain; minimal knots | Extremely durable | Lacquer, Oil, Wax | Contemporary, refined furniture | Sleek, premium appearance |
| European Oak | Light golden-brown, straighter grain | Very strong and stable | Lacquer, Oil, Wax | Traditional or modern tables | Classic, versatile, timeless |
| Ash | Light cream to pale brown; open grain | Strong, flexible | Lacquer, Oil, Wax | Modern or curved designs | Bright, clean, contemporary |
| Elm | Warm brown, dramatic interlocking grain | Durable, resistant to splitting | Lacquer, Oil, Wax | Statement pieces | Bold, organic character |
| American Walnut | Rich dark browns, subtle grain | Dense, strong | Lacquer, Oil, Wax | Luxury statement furniture | Elegant, refined, premium |
Frequently Asked Questions Ash Wood
What is Ash wood?
Ash is a strong, light-coloured hardwood known for its attractive grain and excellent durability. It’s often chosen for furniture because of its flexibility, resilience, and ability to absorb various finishes.
How does Ash wood look compared to Oak?
Ash typically has a lighter, cream-to-pale-brown tone with a more open, straight grain pattern. Oak is darker and more visibly textured, while ash gives a brighter, contemporary feel to furniture.
Is Ash wood durable?
Yes. The “grade” refers to the appearance of the timber, not its strength. Character Grade Oak is just as durable as Prime Grade, making it an excellent choice for long-lasting furniture.
Why should I choose Ash for my table or chairs?
Ash is perfect if you want a lighter, modern look that still carries the warmth and character of solid wood. Its flexibility also makes it excellent for bespoke designs and curved features. through visible knots, grain patterns, and colour variation.
Does Ash wood take finishes well?
Yes very well. Ash’s open grain absorbs oils, waxes, and stains beautifully, allowing you to achieve a wide range of finishes from natural and light to rich and dark tones, giving the wood a more rustic and distinctive appearance.
How does Ash compare to Oak in terms of strength?
Ash is slightly less dense than oak but is more flexible and shock-resistant. Oak tends to have a heavier, more traditional feel, while ash is lighter and lends itself to modern designs.