Chionanthus retusus
Chinese Fringe Tree
Description
This small tree will slowly grow 15'-20' high and 20'-25' wide. It has deciduous, green, glossy leaves. During spring, clusters of fringe-like, white, fragrant flowers cover the tree, making a spectacular sight with the green leaves behind the flowers. After bloom period, olive-like fruit appear, maturing to blue/black in fall. Birds and critters love the fruit. Bark is gray/brown and exfoliates with age; it is attractive especially during winter. This tree tolerates full to part sun but will bloom more in full sun. It prefers well draining, moist, fertile, acidic soil. It is not a drought tolerant tree so it needs regular watering and more during hot spells.
Plant Type
Tree
Height Range
12-25'
Flower Color
White
Flower Season
Spring
Leaf Color
Green
Bark Color
n/a
Fruit Color
Black, Blue
Fruit Season
Fall
Sun
Full, Half
Water
Medium, Extra in Summer
Growth Rate
Slow
Soil Type
Loam
Soil Condition
Rich, Well-drained, Moist
Soil pH
Acid
Adverse Factors
n/a
Design Styles
English Cottage, Japanese
Accenting Features
Fragrance, Showy Flowers, Specimen
Seasonal Interest
Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall
Location Uses
Background, Lawn, Patio, Walls / Fences
Special Uses
Shade Tree
Attracts Wildlife
Birds, Wildlife
Water Saving Tip:
Replace turf with groundcovers, trees, and shrubs. If you have areas where no one uses the grass, patches that do not grow well, or a turf area too small to water without runoff, consider replacing the turf with water-efficient landscaping.