European ash and Manna ash are often considered for the same spot in the garden (shade, specimen). The data below shows where they differ: size, hardiness, care, toxicity and price.
Fraxinus excelsior 7 m × 4 m after 10 years
A native forest tree of huge size: its loose, domed crown of pinnate leaves reaches 20 to 40 metres in time, and the black winter buds make it easy to…
Fraxinus ornus 5 m × 3.5 m after 10 years
Manna ash is a medium-sized tree with a rounded crown that covers itself in creamy white, scented flower plumes around May and turns yellow to…
European ash: We do not recommend it for most Central European gardens.
European ash is hardier: down to -29 °C, against -23 °C for Manna ash.
Manna ash tolerates drought better than European ash.
Manna ash needs less water than European ash.
Manna ash needs less care than European ash.
Manna ash is cheaper: about HUF 5,400 at the size usually planted, against about HUF 36,000 for European ash.
|
Feature
|
European ash
|
Manna ash
|
|---|---|---|
| Group | Large tree | Large tree |
| Size after 10 years | 7 m × 4 m | 5 m × 3.5 m |
| Ultimate size | 20–40 m × 15–25 m | 8–15 m × 6–12 m |
| Growth rate | Fast | Medium |
| Light | Full sun | Full sun |
| Soil | Average garden soil, Clay, Calcareous | Average garden soil, Clay, Sandy, Calcareous |
| Hardiness | down to -29 °C (USDA 4, RHS H7) | down to -23 °C (USDA 6, RHS H7) |
| Foliage | Deciduous | Deciduous |
| Flowering | April–May, green, purple | April–June, white |
| Water need | Medium | Low |
| Drought tolerance | Low | High |
| Maintenance | High | Low |
| Planting distance | 1200 cm | 600 cm |
| For dogs | Non-toxic (uncertain) | no data |
| For cats | Non-toxic (uncertain) | no data |
| For children | Non-toxic (uncertain) | Non-toxic (uncertain) |
| Typical price | approx. HUF 36,000 | approx. HUF 5,400 |
Prices are rounded, indicative values. Toxicity data is for information only. If your pet or child has eaten a plant, contact a vet or a doctor. Data updated: October 13, 2026
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