Chionanthus virginicus, commonly known as Fringe Tree or Grancy Graybeard, is a graceful, deciduous small tree or large shrub native to the eastern U.S. It is celebrated for its fragrant, airy white flowers that appear in late spring, resembling fringe or lace as they dangle from the branches. Typically growing 12 to 20 feet tall and wide, Fringe Tree fits beautifully into native landscapes, woodland gardens, and mixed borders. It is adaptable to a range of conditions and provides valuable ecological benefits including nectar for pollinators and fruit for birds.

Why choose Fringe Tree:

• Unique flowers: Delicate white fringe-like blooms provide stunning late spring display

• Native charm: Supports pollinators and fits beautifully into native landscapes

• Small-space tree: Perfect for residential gardens, borders, or woodland edges

Cultivating tips:

• Sun exposure: Grows well in full sun to part shade

• Soil needs: Prefers moist, well-drained soils; tolerates clay and acidic conditions

• Maintenance: Minimal; prune in winter if shaping is needed

Designs for your garden:

• Woodland gardens: A natural fit beneath taller trees or at forest edges

• Native borders: Adds texture and bloom to mixed native shrub or perennial plantings

• Specimen planting: Use as a focal point for its form and seasonal display

Ecological benefits:

• Native species: Supports native bees and other pollinators

• Wildlife-friendly: Female trees produce bluish fruits eaten by birds

• Sustainable choice: Long-lived, low-maintenance, and ecologically beneficial