Chionanthus spp.
fringetrees and allies
Eastern North America, East Asia, and the tropics
Overview
Chionanthus is a genus of around 80-150 species of deciduous and evergreen shrubs and small trees in the olive family, distributed across eastern North America, East Asia, and the tropics. The temperate species are widely grown: C. virginicus of the southeastern United States and C. retusus of East Asia, both raised for their clouds of fringe-like white flowers. Plants reach 3-10 m (10-33 ft) tall, with opposite, simple, entire leaves and showy terminal or lateral panicles of flowers whose four narrow, strap-shaped petals create a fleecy, fringed effect in late spring. Many species are functionally dioecious, with male and female flowers on separate plants; female and bisexual plants bear clusters of small, olive-like, blue-black fruit in late summer. Species grow in moist woodland, on streambanks, and rocky slopes. The temperate species are slow-growing and late to leaf out in spring, and fruiting depends on having both sexes present.
Native Range
Chionanthus occurs in eastern North America, East Asia, and parts of the tropics in Africa, Asia, and the Pacific. The hardy C. virginicus is native to the southeastern United States, while C. retusus comes from China, Korea, and Japan. Species grow in moist woodland, on streambanks, and rocky slopes.Suggested Uses
Chionanthus is planted as a specimen, in shrub borders, woodland edges, and as a small flowering tree for lawns and patios. The temperate species suit urban and pollinator gardens, and the fruit draws birds. C. retusus is used as a street and courtyard tree in mild climates.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height10' - 33'
Width/Spread10' - 25'
Bloom Information
Flowering occurs in late spring to early summer, around May-June in temperate climates, as or just after the leaves expand. The fringe-like white panicles last about two weeks and are lightly scented. Female and bisexual plants then develop fruit that ripens blue-black by late summer.
Detailed Descriptions
Foliage Description
greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 4-10 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Water & Climate
Water Needs
Time to Maturity
5-7 years