Chionanthus virginicus (Fringe Tree)

Chionanthus virginicus (Fringe Tree) is a deciduous shrub or small tree which is spectacular in full bloom. It is covered in late spring or early summer with delicate clouds of slightly fragrant, creamy-white flowers borne in long drooping panicles. As the blooms fade, the petals drop like snow on the ground. Featuring a broad and spreading habit, Fringe Tree is dioecious (separate male and female plants). While the male flowers bear slightly longer petals and are showier, the female flowers give way to lovely clusters of dark blue fruit in late summer and are a food source for birds and wildlife. The foliage of wide, spear-shaped leaves turns golden-yellow in fall. Native to the eastern United States, this breathtaking plant is tolerant of air pollution and adapts well to urban settings.

• Winner of the Cary Award which recognizes plants that are particularly adequate for New England, offer superior landscape appeal, and are winter hardy and pest resistant.
• Grows up to 12-20 ft. tall and wide (360-600 cm).
• A full sun or part shade lover, this plant is easily grown in moist, fertile, slightly acidic, well-drained soils. Intolerant of prolonged dry conditions.
• Perfect as a specimen plant or in mixed borders.
• Low maintenance, this plant needs little pruning.
• Virtually pest and disease free.
• Propagate by seed in a cold frame in fall. May take up to 18 months to germinate