Autumn Purple Ash
Autumn Purple Ash is a fast-growing shade tree valued for its strong structure, dense canopy, and deep purple-red fall color. Well-suited to Colorado landscapes, it handles heat, sun, and urban conditions while providing reliable shade and bold seasonal color with manageable maintenance. This is the only Ash Tree we recommend for Colorado climates.
Quick specifications
- Mature Height
- 45–55 ft
- Mature Spread
- 35–45 ft
- Growth Rate
- Moderate
- Sun
- Full sun preferred for best growth and color
- Water
- Deep, consistent watering during establishment• Structural pruning when young improves branch strength
- Hardiness
- 40–60+ years with proper care
Identification
Species
Leaf detail
Structure
Overview
Autumn Purple Ash is a fast-growing shade tree valued for its strong structure, dense canopy, and deep purple-red fall color. Well-suited to Colorado landscapes, it handles heat, sun, and urban conditions while providing reliable shade and bold seasonal color with manageable maintenance. This is the only Ash Tree we recommend for Colorado climates.
Key Characteristics
- Mature Size: 45–55 ft tall | 35–45 ft wide
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Form: Upright oval to rounded canopy
- Fall Color: Deep purple to maroon
- Lifespan: 40–60+ years with proper care
Colorado Growing Conditions
Excellent cold hardiness and wind tolerance
Adapts well to alkaline soils common along the Front Range
More consistent fall color than many ash varieties
Performs well in urban and residential landscapes
Planting Considerations
- Full sun preferred for best growth and color
- Allow adequate space for mature canopy
- Deep, consistent watering during establishment• Structural pruning when young improves branch strength
Common Problems
- Susceptible to Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) without protection
- Occasional leaf scorch during extreme heat or drought
- Branch breakage if poorly structured when young
Best Use Scenarios
- Residential shade tree
- Streetscapes and parkways (with EAB management)
- Wind-exposed Front Range sites
- Landscapes seeking strong fall color
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