Chinese fringe tree
Chionanthus retusus
USDA zones5 to 9
SunHandles full sun to partial sun
WaterHandles moderate to moist soil
Size10 to 20 feet tall10 to 20 feet wide
- Growth rate
- Moderate
- Habit
- Columnar
- Bloom season
- Spring, summer
- Bloom color
- White
- Foliage color
- Green
- Soil types
- Loam, clay
- Soil pH
- Acid
Garden uses
Attracts
Notes
Chinese fringe tree (Chionanthus retusus) is a tree for borders, specimen planting, and winter interest. It is hardy to USDA zone 5, or down to -20°F (-29°C). This plant likes full or part sun and average to moist, loamy or clay soil. Deer rarely make it their first choice. Fragrant white flowers cover it in late spring or early summer. Male and female flowers grow on separate trees, and the female trees make dark blue fruit that birds eat.
Pairs well with Kentucky coffeetree, American holly, Autumn fern, and Sedge.
Native range
Asia.