About this tree
Fraxinus ornus, or manna ash, is a small to medium deciduous tree native to southern Europe and parts of western Asia. It grows 10–15 m tall and is best known for its abundant, fragrant, creamy-white flower clusters that appear in late spring or early summer, attracting bees and other pollinators. The pinnate leaves are glossy and dark green, turning yellow in autumn. Unlike the European ash, F. ornus is often planted along streets and in parks due to its more ornamental nature. It provides modest habitat for insects and nesting birds, and while its ecological role is more limited, it supports beneficial pollinators. The tree prefers dry, sunny sites with well-drained soils and tolerates drought better than many ash species. One of its most unusual traits is the production of a sweet sap known as “manna”, which has been traditionally harvested in Sicily and used as a sweetener. This sap oozes from cuts in the bark and hardens into white flakes. Manna ash is resistant to ash dieback, making it a useful alternative in areas affected by the disease.