RHODE ISLAND TREE COUNCIL’S FLOWERING TREE SPOTLIGHT

There is an abundance of beautiful flowering trees to choose from. In this series we will highlight one tree at a time to become familiar with.

Fringe Tree, Chionanthus virginicus

Fringe trees have been growing in popularity over the years due to their beauty, hardiness and longevity. Their name comes from the stunning floral display in late spring. While the white feathery and fragrant flowers only last about two weeks, the tree is stunning all year round. The fruit provides late summer interest and the yellow of the fall color is rich and textured. Trees can be either male or female. Males sport larger, showier blooms, and if grown alongside a male, females form the attractive, blackish-blue fruits that birds like.

Botanical Name : Chionanthus virginicus

Zone: 5-9

Nativity: North America

Size: 12-20’

Spread: 12-20’

Exposure: Full Sun-Part Sun

Bloom time: In late spring, an abundance of feathery white flowers appears on the tree for a two-week blooming providing a showy display.

Growth rate: Slow