SKU: TC00200

Chionanthus virginicus - White Fringetree or "Old-man's-beard" is a small, understory tree with showy masses of fragrant, lacy, white flowers that appear in drooping clusters in late spring. Dark-blue, grape-like clusters of fruits are produced from female blossoms. Other features are dark-green, glossy foliage and a pale-gray trunk with bands of white. Fall color is usually not significant. One of the last trees to bear new leaves in spring, it appears dead until the leaves and flowers appear. The genus name Chionanthus, meaning "snow" and "flower," describes the blossoms.

Height: 12-30¿
Spread: 12-20'
Zone: 3-9
Soil type: Loose, moist, sandy soils.
Soil pH: 4.5-6.5
Light: full sun to part shade
Moisture: medium wet, intolerant of prolonged dry conditions
Flowers: White, May-June
Fruit: Dark-blue, grape-like clusters of fruits are produced from female trees
Fall color: Yellow

Wildlife value: fruits are food source for birds and wildlife
Notes of Interest: Medicinal plant used by Choctaw and Koasati Indians-decoction of roots or bark used as a wash for cuts and infected sores and wounds. Tree is tolerant of air pollution and adapts well to urban settings.