Tree Categories: Fall Color Trees, Fast Growing Trees, and Shade Trees
Mature Tree Height: 40-60 feet tall | Mature Tree Width: 30+ feet wide
Tree Growing Zones: Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, and Zone 9
The Autumn Purple Ash (Fraxinus americana ‘Autumn Purple’) is a medium-sized shade tree. It has a strong central leader and a pyramidal form with a rounded top when young but develops an oval-shaped crown as it matures. This tree is known for its rapid growth rate and superior fall foliage color: maroon-purple exterior with orange-yellow interior that turns earlier than most other trees. It also has a nice summer appearance with glossy, rich dark green leaves that are pinnate-compound with 7 leaflets.
The Autumn Purple Ash was discovered at the University of Wisconsin by Karl Junginger of McKay nursery and introduced in 1956. This cultivar differs from others with its superior long-lasting fall color. It is a great choice as a showy shade tree in a park or big yard. It likes moist, well-drained soils but will tolerate drier soils if they are well-draining. Tolerates partial sun but will grow best, most rapidly, and with the best fall color in full sun.
