Lower Risk

Fraxinus velutina (Arizona Ash, Velvet Ash)

( Fraxinus pennsylvanica ssp. velutina, Fraxinus velutina var. coriacea)

This deciduous tree is native to south-western North America. The species has not naturalised in Australia, despite being in the ornamental trade since 1930. Overseas, Velvet Ash may have naturalised in Armenia. There is no evidence the species is invasive outside its native range. Reproduction is via winged seeds dispersed by wind. There is also evidence that seeds may be spread via vehicles. The species is listed as causing dermatitis. A closely related species, Fraxinus angustifolia subsp. angustifolia, is a declared plant in South Australia (and known to be invasive there). Velvet Ash has male and female flowers on separate plants.