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Chionanthus virginicus

fringe tree

A deciduous shrub with an abundance of slightly fragrant, airy, creamy- white flowers in June and July; dark blue-black berries may follow in autumn

Other common names
North American fringe tree
old man's beard
see morepoison ash
Virginian snow flower
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Size
Ultimate height
2.5–4 metres
Time to ultimate height
10–20 years
Ultimate spread
2.5–4 metres
Growing conditions
Clay
Loam
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer White Green
Autumn Yellow Black Blue
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

West–facing or South–facing or East–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H5
Botanical details
Family
Oleaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy
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

Plant range
E North America

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in any fertile, slightly acidic, well-drained soil in full sun

Propagation

Propagate by seed in a cold frame in autumn. May take up to 18 months to germinate

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Architectural
  • Wall side borders
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

Pruning group 1; remove lower branches to encourage a tree-like habit

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

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