Also known as American Fringe Tree · American Fringetree · Fringetree
White Fringetree (Chionanthus virginicus) is a stunning native North American ornamental tree or large shrub, prized for its fragrant, fringe-like white flowers in late s
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Part Shade
75% intensity
Prefers full sun for best flowering, but tolerates partial shade. Protect from harsh afternoon sun in very hot climates.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist but well-drained, especially during establishment and dry periods. Reduce in winter.
Well-drained, Acidic to Neutral
50% intensity
Hardy
25% intensity
Tolerates a wide range of temperatures once established. Protect young plants from extreme cold and heat.
Low
25% intensity
Fertilize sparingly in spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Established trees often require no supplemental feeding.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly, especially during the first year after planting and during dry spells. Aim for consistently moist, well-drained soil. Reduce watering in winter, but do not allow the soil to dry out completely.
Overwatering can lead to root rot.
Prune to shape the tree and remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Best done in late winter or early spring before flowering, or immediately after flowering.
Avoid heavy pruning, as it can reduce the number of blooms.
Propagation is typically done by seeds, which require a period of cold stratification to germinate. Softwood cuttings can be taken in early summer and treated with rooting hormone.
Grafting is also a successful method for cultivars.
Repot young trees every 2-3 years in early spring before new growth begins, or as needed if root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix.
Established trees in the ground rarely need repotting and prefer to be left undisturbed.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of White Fringetree (Chionanthus virginicus)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Oleaceae |
| Genus | Chionanthus |
| Species | Chionanthus virginicus |
Similar in genus Chionanthus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
