Trees

Chionanthus retusus

Chinese fringetree

Chinese fringetree. Chionanthus retusus.

Loose clusters of fine white flowers cover this small tree in spring, contrasting with glossy green foliage. It can develop a single trunk or a broad, multistemmed outline. Plant where its flowers can be seen against darker foliage; fruiting plants also provide food for birds.

At a glance

Sun: Dappled shade / Full sun / Part shade
Size: Height: 10 ft.–30 ft. · Width: 10 ft.–30 ft.
Water: Moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness: USDA zones 5–9

Sizes & prices

B&B 5'+ PkGr4-5' Park Grade Chinese Fringe TreeCall for price

Catalog updated September 8, 2026. This is not a live stock count; please call to confirm availability and price.

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Landscape use & tree form

Use: Ornamental specimen
Form: Columnar; Multi-stemmed; Rounded; Spreading; Vase
Growth rate: Medium
Fruit / litter: Female plants may carry blue-black drupes, eaten by birds.
Pollination: Functionally male and female flowers usually occur on separate plants. Fruiting is concentrated on female plants with compatible pollen nearby.
Major issues: Generally few serious problems; occasional scale, borers, leaf spots or canker.

Resistance & tolerances

Deer: Browsing risk varies: NC State reports frequent damage, while Rutgers rates lower damage. Protect young plants.
Drought: Dry-weather care: Moist, well-drained soil. Maintain the recommended moisture during extended dry spells; no cultivar-specific drought rating confirmed.
Wet soil: Use moist but well-drained soil; not a permanently waterlogged site.

Resistance is not a guarantee; deer and rabbits may browse any plant.

Pollinators & wildlife

Birds: Fruit provides food

Seasonal interest

Foliage: Deciduous

Growing & care

Pruning: Retain the naturally multistemmed crown, or select a trunk while young; avoid repeated removal of large mature limbs.

Sources & photo credits

NC State Extension

University of Minnesota Extension

Rutgers Cooperative Extension

Photo: Photo by Zebulon Walton · CC0

Image notes: Chinese fringetree. Chionanthus retusus. Resized and converted to WebP.

Reviewed September 22, 2026. Growing conditions vary by location.