Unlike many species which have flowers of both sexes on the same tree, white ash trees are either male or female. Trees of both sexes must therefore be present for seed production. Of our species of ash, white ash leaflets have the longest stalks.

White ash generally grows in rich, deep soil which is moist but well-drained. It is rarely found in lowlands that lack sufficient drainage.

It seldom forms pure stands. It commonly associates with sugar maple, yellow birch, beech, red and white oak, and basswood.

The wood ranges from almost pure white to light brown. It is hard, heavy and highly resistant. It is coarse-grained and pliable.

White ash is used when very solid wood is required, especially for sporting goods and handles of all kinds. It is also useful in cabinetmaking and for lathe-turned items.