Chionanthus virginicus

Product Info

Fringe Tree (Chionanthus virginicus)
Olive Family

Fringe Tree is a small, deciduous tree native to the southeastern United States known for its showy and unusual flowers. Typically reaching 12 to 20 feet in height with a similar spread, it exhibits a rounded, open canopy and slow growth. The species is distinguished by its cascading clusters of fragrant, white flowers with fringed petals that bloom in late spring. These flowers give way to bluish-black drupes in the summer. The foliage consists of large, dark green, glossy leaves that are up to 8 inches long. The tree's bark is gray and becomes furrowed with age. Preferring well-drained soils and ranging from full sun to partial shade, Chionanthus virginicus is valued for its aesthetic appeal and ecological benefits, such as attracting birds with its fruits.

Blooms: White, 2-3 weeks, Apr-May
Leaves: Bright green, glossy, 6-8”, turn yellow in fall
Height:12-20’ 
Space: 10-15'
Soil: Average-Wet-Moist
Exposure: Full sun-Part Sun-Part Shade 
Fauna: Mostly bees, host plant to many species of moths, including several sphinx moths, fruit for birds and mammals
Seeds: Female plants produce navy blue, olive like fruit that birds love
Deer Resistance: High
Zone: 3-9
Native Status: NC native, common across the state
Provenance: North Carolina, seed grown