Chionanthus virginicus (Fringetree)

Chionanthus virginicus, also called fringetree, is a 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 to 15-30', fringetree produces beautiful, fringey, trailing white flowers in early spring. Flowers are incredibly fragrant, their appearance and sweet scent makes fringetree highly appealing to a number of pollinators as well as gardeners, and Chionanthus virginicus makes an excellent specimen tree for this reason. After spring flowers, small green fruits develop in the summer, eventually turning to small black berries that attract birds and small mammals and adding to the tree's ecological appeal.

Performing best in full sun to part shade and organically rich soils, fringetree prefers medium to medium-dry moisture, but 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 or as a centerpiece in a large pollinator garden. Whether you're looking for a great statement piece or an excellent plant for a number of pollinators and other backyard critters, fringetree is a great choice for a variety of home gardens.