Chionanthus virginicus- Fringe Tree
Description
General: A large shrub or small tree with a spreading open habit that’s wider than it is tall and varies widely. Some are round and robust, some open and full and some tree shaped. They grow 12 to 20’ in the landscape, often reaching 30’ in the wild.
Leaves: Opposite, simple and narrow 3 to 8” long. Medium to dark green. Late to leaf out in the spring (May). Fall color ranges from bright yellow to brownish yellow.
Flowers: White, slightly fragrant fleecy panicles 6 to 8” long in May to early June. Blooms on previous years wood. Very showy and long lasting.
Fruit: Dark blue egg-shaped drupes ½” long August to September. Enjoyed by many bird species.
Attributes: Fringe trees make beautiful specimen trees or small shrubs. They are suited in groups or as stand alone specimens. Their clean, dignified habit combined with their beauty in flower, fruit and fall color make them among the best ornamental shrubs.
Culture
Hardiness: Zones 4-9
Growing Conditions: Prefer deep, moist, fertile and acid soils, but are very adaptable. Full sun to partial shade. Pollution tolerant.
Maintenance: Very few disease or insect issues. Rarely requires pruning.
Transplanting: We’ve had no issue transplanting several fringe specimens on the hill abiding by the usual guidelines.
Our Experience
Experience at Great Hill
We have several Chionanthus both on the hill and in our nursery stock. They are certainly a shrub to feature as they provide multiple seasons of interest, stay tidy in habit and form and are breath taking when in flower.
Chionanthus Bloom Data
| Year | Bud Break | Full Bloom | Bloom Drop |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | May 29 | June 8 | June 24 |
| 2021 | May 20 | May 28 | June 14 |
| 2022 | May 26 | June 6 | June 20 |
| 2023 | May 23 | May 31 | June 16 |