Chionanthus retusus
Chinese fringe tree
A stunningly different little tree that can also be grown as a multi stemmed shrub. The clusters of fragrant snow white fringed flowers are the source of its common name, appearing in May to June. The flowers are followed by bluish-black berries, much to the delight of the birds. The glossy mid-green leaves are held on a broadly spreading rounded canopy, changing to a yellow in autumn. With bronze coloured peeling bark, a point of interest in every season
Size
Ultimate height
4–8 metresTime to ultimate height
20–50 yearsUltimate spread
2.5–4 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drained, Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Bronze | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Bronze | White | Green | |
| Autumn | Bronze | Yellow | ||
| Winter | Bronze |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Oleaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Spreading branched
- Genus
Chionanthus are small deciduous trees or large srhubs, with simple leaves in pairs, and loose terminal panicles of whtie flowers with 4 narrow petals, sometimes followed by blue-black berries
- Name status
Correct
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in rich, free-draining soil, this tree will grow in partial shade, however the flowers will be much better in a full sun location
Propagation
Propagate by seed when ripe, or by layering a low hanging branch in spring or autumn
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Low Maintenance
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
See pruning group 1
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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