Fragrant Gardens are more than just roses!

Chionanthus virginicus
Plant Abstract

 

Known as- Fringetree
Grow Zone - 3 to 9
Type- Tree
Familial- Oleaceae
Smith Scl. hardy? Yes
Geography- Eastern United States
ht.- 12 to 20 ft.
Span- 12 to 20 ft.
Coloring- Creamy white
Shade/Light- Full sun to part shade
Moisture- Medium dampure
Hi/Lo Maint- Low
Abstract-
Easily grown in average, moderate wet, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. Prefers damp, fertile soils. Seldom needs pruning. Tolerant of air pollution and adapts well to urban settings. Intolerant of prolonged arid conditions.
Attributes-
Fringetree is a deciduous, Missouri native shrub or small tree with a spreading, rounded habit that typically grows 12-20” tall (to 35” in the wild, however) and most often occurs in rich, damp woods and hillsides, damp stream banks, limestone glade margins and rocky bluffs and ledges. Common name refers to the slightly fragrant, spring-blooming flowers which feature airy, terminal, drooping clusters (4-6’ long) of fringe-like, creamy white petals. Dioecious (separate male and female plants), but also may have perfect flowers on each plant. Male flowers are showier than female flowers. Fertilized perfect or female flowers give way to clusters of olive-like fruits which ripen to a dark, bluish black in late summer and are a food source, bird baths as a water source for birds and wildlife. Wide, spear-shaped leaves (to 8’ long) turn yellow in autumn.
Issues-
No serious insect or disease problems. Some susceptibility to scale and borers (particularly when grown in arid locations).
Common Applications-
Grow in groups or as specimens in lawns or in shrub or woodland borders. Also may be used in native plant gardens or near streams or ponds. Can be spectacular in full bloom