Chionanthus
( kye - oh - NAN - thus )
At-A-Glance InformationCommonly called Fringe Tree, this genus of deciduous shrubs and trees needs full sun and moderate to regular water. The fruit produced by these trees will attract hungry birds to your yard. Flowers on these trees appear in hanging clusters of white and are followed by small dark olive-like fruits. Leaves will turn yellow in fall.
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Chionanthus Species and Varietals
The genus Chionanthus is a member of the plant family Oleaceae, and includes 140 species. The best growing zones for Fringe Tree vary depending on the species. For more information, see the descriptions below. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.
Chionanthus quadristamineus (Blue Plum) This species is native to Australia, and produces egg-shaped fruits that are dark blue and about 2-2.5 inches long. Flowers are white and bloom November through May, and leaves are green and leathery. Fruits are edible, though they are usually eaten in pickled form, as with Olives (a relative genus). |
Chionanthus retusus (Chinese Fringe Tree) This deciduous species grows well in zones 3-9 and 14-24, and is native to China and Taiwan. It reaches around 20 feet tall but can be trained as a smaller specimen. Flowers are pure white and open in late spring to early summer. Bark is greyish brown and provides winter interest. |
Chionanthus virginicus (Fringe Tree, White Fringetree) This species is native to the southeastern United States and grows best in zones 2-6 and 15-24. Leaves and flower clusters are large. Blooms are greenish-white and slightly fragrant. Can be a shrubby, open plant or trained as a small specimen tree. Can tolerate air pollution. Bark is scaly and reddish-brown. |
Caring for and pruning Chionanthus Trees
Propagation
Problems and Pests
Gallery
Videos
A video all about growing camellias successfully
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Propagating camellias
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Resources
The New Sunset Western Garden Book: The Ultimate Gardening Guide (2012) - Page 240, Chionanthus
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