FRAXINUS, the ASH, in botany, a genus of trees, belonging to the polygamia dioecia class. The calix of the hermaphrodite is divided into four parts; it has no corolla; the stamens are two; and it has but one pistil: the female has one pistil, and one lanceolate seed. There are three species, only one of which, viz. the excelsior or common ash, is a native of Britain.
The wood of this tree is in great use among several artificers, as wheelwrights, cartwrights, carpenters, turners, &c. also for making ploughs, harrows, axle-trees, oars, balls, &c. It is said to be as lasting for building as oak, and often preferred before it: though the timber of the trunk greatly excels that of a bough.