sprig of ash

The Sprig of Ash is one of the many items found in the natural world that appear in coats of arms. It is one of several varities of bush and small plants frequently found in the hedgerows beside fields that can be seen. A Complete Guide to Heraldry, A.C. Fox-Davies, Bonanza (re-print of 1909 Edition), New York, 1978, P270. In truth, the exact species of tree that brought forth a leaf or branch that is borne on a shield might only be visible on very close inspection – it is likely that the name of tree reflects something of the name of the holder (as ash sprig for ASHE for example), rather than any meaning specific to the plant. Boutell’s Heraldry, J.P. Brooke-Little, Warne, (revised Edition) London 1970, P 100