The Ash

There are several Ash trees (Fraxinus excelsior) in Charlton Down Nature Area. It is only one species out of 28 different types of trees and shrubs recorded in and around the site. The ash trees are found along the perimeter of the area where they were part of the original hedgerows separating the large arable field from the small one that became the Nature Area. At this time of year (May) the ash trees stand out from the rest because they are the last to flower and come into leaf. So their tall upward-reaching branches are still mainly bare. If you are able to look close up, there are strange purple-black buds on the ends of the grey twigs which are only now beginning to open to expose the flowers and new leaves.