Chinese fringe tree, Chionanthus retusus
Scientific Name
Chionanthus is from the Greek words chion (snow) and anthos (a flower) referring to the white flowers; retusus means notched at the tip referring to the leaves.
Common Name
Fringe tree is from the white, fringe-like flowers that bloom in early spring.
NATIVE RANGE AND HABITAT
Chinese fringe tree is native to China, Korea, and Japan
CONSERVATION INFORMATION
Not native to Kentucky
Growth Habit and Form
Chinese fringe tree’s habit varies from a large, multi-stemmed, rounded to broad-rounded shrub to a small, rounded tree. It usually reaches 15 to 25 feet in height. The flowers, fruit, foliage and bark are highly ornamental. Plants are dioecious; the fruit will only occur on female plants.
Leaves
Leaves are opposite, variable in shape, usually oval, sometimes obovate or almost round and 3 to 8 inches long. Leaves are lustrous dark green above, downy beneath and on the midrid.
Flowers
Snow white, lightly fragrant flowers occur in 2- to 3-inch long and 2- to 4-inch wide clusters at the end of the current season’s growth. Soft, fleecy, snow-like blooms occur in May and June. Chinese fringe tree blooms 2 to 3 weeks before white fringe tree (Chionanthus virginicus).
Fruit are ovoid, 3/8- to ½-inch-long bluish drupe, which ripens in September through October. Chinese fringe tree is dioecious; the fruits occur only on female plants.
Bark
The bark is a handsome gray-brown and with maturity becomes ridged and furrowed.
Wild and Cultivated Varieties
None
HORTICULTURE
Landscape Use
Chinese fringe tree is a spectacular specimen tree. Attractive flowers in spring, ornamental fruit in fall and handsome bark in winter create year-round interest. Chinese fringe tree may be used as a small street tree, in groupings, or in the back of a shrub border. The species is tolerant to air pollution.
Hardiness Zone
Hardy in USDA Zones 6 to 8.
Growth Rate
Chinese fringe tree grows slowly.
Cultivation and Propagation Information
Chinese fringe tree prospers in full sun, but will stand partial shade. It withstands acid or high pH, sandy loam or clay soils. Propagation by seed is difficult.
Diseases and Insects
Generally disease-free; occasional mildew and scale.
Wildlife Considerations
Chinese fringe trees provide fair homes and cover for wildlife.
Maintenance Practices
Chinese fringe tree needs minimal maintenance.
Chinese fringe tree was introduced into cultivation in 1845