The authors are searching for the finest example of a common ash (Fraxinus excelsior) tree to feature in The New Sylva. We hope that our readers can help by submitting their favourite ash trees – one of which will be selected and appear in the book frontispiece.

Following the outbreak of ash dieback (Chalara fraxinea), the chapter on Ash in The New Sylva has been rewritten (see post). Reflecting on the likely impact of the pathogen on ash trees in Britain, we are keen to feature a majestic British ash tree in one of the most prominent positions in the book; the frontispiece. There are many known venerable and notable ash trees in the country, and surely many more lesser-known trees.

Can you propose a candidate ash tree? It could be especially grand or noble, simply have a beautiful and graceful form, have its own fascinating history, or be very ancient. It may be just your favourite ash tree.

Access to the ash contact form is now closed

The tree selected will be visited by the authors some time in the next three months. It will feature as a full-page drawing made by Sarah Simblet.

Full acknowledgement of any assistance will be provided in The New Sylva.


UPDATE

This submission process is now closed and a result announced. We are grateful to the Sylva Foundation for hosting the online form which enabled people to submit tree candidates. 

4 Comments

  1. Gabriel,

    Form filled out today and I wish you very happy New Year.

    Regards

    Tony Powell

    1. Thank you so much Tony. I can’t access the image from where I am currently but look forward to doing so. Judging from your description I would say that your candidate ash tree has a very interesting background!
      Wishing you a fruitful New Year.
      Gabriel Hemery

    1. Thanks Jill – of course, and I was rather expecting you to comment! The idea though is that we get everyone with an interest in this to contribute. So, which single ash tree would you propose, out of the hundreds that you must know from the Ancient Tree Register? Now there’s a challenge …

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