Fraxinus americana Hunky Punk - American Ash

The Fraxinus americana 'Hunky Punk' is a rare variegated foliage form of the American Ash grafted onto a common ash, Fraxinus excelsior. This deciduous tree of medium size bears large compound leaves with leaflets that are more or less edged with cream to pink on a dark green background. Very cold hardy and easy to grow in any deep, moist soil, this elegant variety will make a striking statement when planted as a specimen tree in a large garden.

The Fraxinus americana 'Hunky Punk' is a tree of the olive family, just like the olive tree and the lilac. The species is native to the eastern United States, where it can be found along riverbanks and in wet areas. Grafted onto the European common ash, the 'Hunky Punk' variety is more tolerant to growing conditions.

The overall habit of this 'Hunky Punk' American ash is conical. It develops a vertical and fairly short trunk, well cleared, topped by a crown that opens up with age. At maturity, the tree will typically reach a height of 8-10 m, with a crown spread of about 5 to 6 m, dimensions suitable for a decorative garden. The deciduous foliage consists of leaves composed of 7 to 9 oblong leaflets, slightly toothed on the edges. The base colour is dark green, with cream to slightly pink edges that extend more or less over the entire leaf surface. In autumn, the leaves turn yellow before falling.

Perfectly hardy, the 'Hunky Punk' American ash prefers a non-burning exposure and can tolerate any moist to wet soil, including limestone. Its obvious beauty and moderate growth make it ideal for planting in a large grove or as a specimen tree against a backdrop of conifers, such as the Thuya plicata 'Excelsa' for example. It will provide a pleasant shade spot in the summer. To enhance this little corner of freshness, consider planting some spring bulbs and/or some shade-loving perennials at its base for the summer. Also, think about shrubs with dark foliage to highlight its luminous foliage.