The size of the ash tree depends strongly on its growing site and soil conditions. The height of the European ash varies from 20-30 m to 40m maximum. The log has a length of 15-20m and a diameter of 0.4-0.9m.

The wood we use mainly for ash is the very broad sapwood, whose color varies from white to yellowish or light yellow-brown. Freshly sawn wood can also have a pinkish colour. When exposed to light, ash becomes more yellowish over time.
 
Due to the erratic evolution of the core, a brown/white striped or flamed wood is produced which is called olive ash.

Ash is known for its hardiness. The width of the growth rings has a great influence on the strength of this wood species. Ash with wide growth rings is therefore much stronger and more resistant than ash with narrow growth rings.