Chionanthus virginicus (Fringetree)

Chionanthus virginicus, also called fringetree, is a small- to medium-sized tree or large shrub noted for its attractive bright green foliage, rounded growth form, and incredibly showy, fragrant flowers. Growing to 12-20' tall and wide, though occasionally as large as 15-30', fringetree produces beautiful, fringey, trailing white flowers in early spring. Flowers are incredibly fragrant, and their appearance and sweet scent makes fringetree highly appealing to a number of pollinators as well as to gardeners, making Chionanthus virginicus an excellent tree for ecological and aesthetic reasons. Afterthe tree's spring flowers begin to fade, small green fruits develop in the summer, eventually ripening to small black berries that attract birds and small mammals and add to the tree's ecological appeal.

Performing best in fertile sites with full sun to partial shade, fringetree prefers medium to medium-dry moisture, and is tolerant of drought and urban conditions, which makes it a great pick for a street tree as well. Apart from specimen and street trees, Chionanthus virginicus also works great in small landscape spaces, woodland gardens, or as a centerpiece in a large pollinator garden. Whether you're looking for a great statement tree or an excellent plant for a number of pollinators and other backyard critters, fringetree is an excellent and aromatic choice for a variety of home gardens.