Unidentified buds in Flower on Tree

[jdoherty]

I took this photo on Sat 6th April 2008 in Monkstown Wood, N.Ireland. I'd appreciate help with an ID.

Thanks, John.

[Dogghound]

Looks like Ash

[Paul mabbott]

Originally Posted by Dogghound

Looks like Ash

Yes, indeed, both the black buds (which give its English name) and the emerging flower buds are distinctive for Fraxinus excelsior.

[Bub-les]

Agree its ash
Barbara

[Hobjob]

I think I'm correct in saying that Ash is the only tree
that has black buds that are also "alternate & opposite", that is the pairs of buds, as you go up the stem are set almost exactly at right angles to each other.

The branches also have a characteristic "Candelabra" shape.

[Bub-les]

you're correct also the bark is smooth and grey on the twigs and ridged on the trunk.

[jdoherty]

Thanks everyone for your invaluable information as well as providing an ID.

John