Chinese Fringe Tree – Chionanthus Retusus – 3 Gallon Pot

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In full bloom, this magnificent tree will stop any passerby in their tracks! The Chinese Fringe Tree, Chionanthus retusus, is very similar in form and beauty to our native fringe tree, what many folks call Grancy Graybeard, Chionanthus virginicus,…but there are a few subtle differences. As with our native U.S. species, the Chinese Fringe Tree is most noted for the profusion of fragrant, fringe-like white flowers in produces about 2 weeks earlier in spring, and which are in more rounded clusters that don’t dangle downwards quite as much. The 4 inch long lustrous, leathery, green leaves are ovate to elliptic in shape and turn a pleasing bright yellow in fall. The shedding gray-brown bark provides interest in the garden during winter. 

Growing 15 to 20 feet tall and equally as wide, the Chinese Fringe Tree is ideal for use as a focal point specimen in landscape borders or to frame the corners or against open walls in home foundation plantings. In larger landscape spaces it can be planted in groupings. A fine addition to wildlife gardens, North American native plant garden, white theme gardens, Asian theme gardens, and cottage gardens.

Suggested Spacing:  25 feet for space between trees

 

The Chinese Fringe Tree is very easy to grow in most any moist but well drained soil of average to high fertility and full sun to part shade. More flowers will be produced with more sun. Prefers a deep, moist, acidic soil, however will tolerate dry periods. Provide an occasional deep soaking during extended drought. Very little if any pruning is necessary. High tolerance of air pollution makes this one a fine selection for urban landscape.