White ash grows over most of the state on moist, deep, well-drained soils in small isolated stands. Other relatives found in Missouri are blue, green and pumpkin ash. Winged seeds are borne in clusters on the twig. These are spread by wind or water or a combination of both. Leaves are opposite and compound with 5 to 7 leaflets which are oval and usually smooth-edged.
Smaller branches are stout, round and smooth.
At the tip of the twig there are always three buds, the large, brown, pyramidal terminal and two small lateral buds. On older portions of the tree, bark is thick, dark brown, or grey and broken into flat ridges. Because of its toughness, strength, and flexibility, the wood is used in the manufacture of athletic equipment, machinery, tools and furniture. It is a beautiful, light-colored wood with a distincitive grain. Because it is so hardy and has good form, it has been widely planted as an ornamental tree.