Our Obelisk Ash Tree (Fraxinus ornus 'Obelisk') (AKA Manna Ash) is a compact and upright tree making it ideal for people that prefer their trees to be upright and compact! It is a smaller tree so expect it to reach 4 metres at around 10 years old. It may grow taller than this depending on local conditions, global warming, low flying helicopters etc but compared to most other trees it is a fair bit smaller. It has a spread of around 3 metres again dependant upon local conditions such as proximity to anti-social, tree murdering neighbours.
Late Spring and the Obelisk Ash tree will show pleasantly scented fluffy white flowers which are popular with insects, bees, local flower pressing club, trespassing herbalists and cheap wine makers so be prepared to be popular in Spring.
It has been described as being able to tolerate most difficult conditions such as coastal sites, chalk, clay, reasonable drought etc, we don't think this includes bad TV scheduling and dodgy political alliances being formed.
As it is quite a columnar shape it is popular for planting in small places and avenues (we think this word describes the look, not the description of the road you live on e.g. close, street). As it does not require regular pruning or maintenance (no oil changes needed), this makes another ideal option for ornamental or avenue planting.
Other unusual uses for the Obelisk Ash Tree:
- As it is a small and reasonably bendy tree, you can turn it into a trebuchet. If your projectile travels far enough, they will never know it was you that flung it!
- You could glue apples, pears, grapes and cucumbers to the branches, convince your hated neighbours that you purchased a miracle spray from the local nursery, stand back and watch them try to source it.
- If you have one leg, a large belly and a pointy head, ideal for hiding behind when playing hide and seek.
