Fraxinus is a genus of trees and shrubs commonly known as ash trees. They are part of the Oleaceae family and are native to various regions, including North America, Europe, and Asia. Ash trees are characterized by their compound leaves, which typically have five to eleven leaflets, and their distinctive bark, which can be gray or brown and often has a rough texture. These trees are important for their ecological and economic value. They provide habitat for wildlife and are used in landscaping and timber production. However, many species of Fraxinus are threatened by pests like the emerald ash borer, which has caused significant declines in ash populations.