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.