Ash trees, or Fraxinus excelsior, are native to Ireland and are an essential aspect of Ireland’s biodiversity and culture. They are celebrated in poetry and folklore and used in sporting equipment. However, a recent disease has threatened the lives of Irish ash trees, but there are initiatives to help preserve the future of the species.
Background
Ash trees are one of the most common trees in Ireland. They can grow in a variety of soils, but they grow best in
well-drained areas. The flowers of the ash tree are so dark that they are
nearly black, and they may be seen before leaves develop. Ash trees are the
last to gain their leaves in spring and are the first to lose their leaves in autumn. Ash woods can be found in the Burren, Co
Clare, and Hanging Rock in South Fermanagh.
The Importance of Ash Trees
It is no secret that trees in general are crucial to the
environment. Irish ash trees in particular house 1,000 species, from mammals and
insects to bryophytes and lichens. Some species may be able to adapt to other
trees, but some species are entirely reliant on ash trees.
Beyond the benefits to the environment and ecosystems, ash
trees are essential parts of Irish culture. Ancient Irish law views ash trees
as one of the “noble” trees. Ash wood is the wood of choice when it comes to
crafting hurleys, and ash trees have been celebrated in various ways through
poetry and folklore. Ireland has several placenames and local traditions
surrounding ash trees. Other uses of the
ash tree include snooker cues and furniture.
Ash Trees in Celtic Mythology
Ash trees have strong roots in Celtic mythology. They are
seen as a symbol of strength due to their strong roots and strong, flexible wood. These trees
have a robust root system, and they can grow up to 130 feet (40 meters) tall.
This contributes to their image of strength.
Ash trees are highly flammable, so they are often associated
with fire. Their wood is burned at Beltane festivals that mark the first day of
summer. The burning of ash trees is believed to protect cattle and crops during
the summer and symbolizes rebirth, change, and growth.
Trees In Danger
In recent years, ash trees have become at risk. Ash dieback
disease, which is caused by an invasive fungal pathogen called Hymenoscyphus
fraxineus, has threatened ash trees in Ireland. The disease was first
detected in 2012 in Ireland. The disease spreads via airborne spores and
infects trees through tree litter (dead plant material that has fallen to the
ground).
Symptoms of ash dieback disease include crown dieback, root
rot, and leaf wilting. These often lead to the death of the tree. Younger trees
are more susceptible, with nearly a 100% mortality rate in some areas of Ireland.
However, there are things being done to help protect ash
trees for the future of the species. A large focus is on breeding ash trees
that are disease-tolerant. Up to 10% of ash trees have some level of disease
tolerance. Organizations have been leading the way in the preservation of the
ash tree for years to come.
How to Help
Ireland’s public is invited to “Report A Healthy Ash Tree” by sending a photo of the tree and a letter of consent
to Teagasc. They will use this information to visit the trees in winter to
gather scion wood for their breeding program.
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