I think that I shall never see.....

[GrannyNanny]

.... tree that I could identify! I have some interesting trees out in my woods. Mostly they are Chinese Elm, Ash and a few maples -- and of course the ubiquitous and hated Buckthorn. However, right at the edge of the woods is a tree that is none of those. I have taken pics of the entire tree -- tall but skinny, although that is possibly a result of its being right next to a couple of other big trees -- of the leaves, and of the bark. I'm hoping that at least one of you will be able to tell me what it is. I've looked at the sites that show deciduous trees of the Midwest, but nothing resembles it. Help!
But wait, there's more -- I also have a couple of small tree seedlings, one 2 and one 3 feet tall at present that don't resembles the larger tree -- or at least I can't discern any likeness. I'm attaching those, too, in the hopes that you will be smarter than I am. Thanks -- Phyllis

[Tigger]

Bitternut Hickory seems reasonable, at the northwest edge of its range (where other hickories are even less likely). Hould be noted by its yellow leaf buds in winter.

[viktoria]

Ash is the most likely one. The other one may be a shrub, one of the native Viburnums. The species may come to mind once I have more coffee.

Viktoria

[Linda P]

My first thought for the skinny tree was ash. The others, I don't have a clue.

[GrannyNanny]

If the tall skinny tree is ash, it is entirely different from the other ash trees in our woods. The others have much more feathery leaves and branches. David, which one did you think was a bitternut hickory - the tall tree or one of the small ones?

[Tigger]

The skinny tree could be bitternut. I won't hazard a guess on the seedlings/saplings.

[viktoria]

There are many species of ash. That straight trunk is a strong indication. As to the Viburnum, check out V. lentago.

Viktoria