Trees

Chionanthus virginicus

American fringetree

American fringetree in flower. Jason Sturner / CC BY 2.0.

A small native tree with airy, fragrant white flowers in late spring and yellow autumn foliage. Its naturally rounded, often multistemmed shape suits woodland edges and mixed plantings. Fruiting plants carry blue-black berries that attract birds; flower display and fruit production vary between plants.

At a glance

Sun: Full sun / Part shade
Size: Height: 12–20 ft.; sometimes taller · Width: 12 ft.–20 ft.
Water: Moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness: USDA zones 3–9

Sizes & prices

#3Fringe Tree$89.99
#10$189.99
#15American Fringe Tree$189.99

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

Ask about this plant

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Landscape use & tree form

Use: Ornamental specimen
Form: Multi-stemmed; Oval; Spreading
Growth rate: Slow
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: Emerald ash borer can attack; drought stress increases susceptibility to borers and scale.

Resistance & tolerances

Deer: Can sustain substantial browsing; protect young plants.
Drought: Tolerant once established; water during establishment and prolonged dry spells.
Wet soil: Occasional wetness tolerated; do not assume tolerance of permanent flooding.

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

Pollinators & wildlife

Birds: Fruit provides food

Native range

Native range / parentage: Central & Eastern U.S.A Species native to Kentucky.
Tristate native status: Species native to Kentucky.

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.
Soil: Moist, well-drained; brief dry periods tolerated; occasional wetness tolerated

Sources & photo credits

NC State Extension

University of Minnesota Extension

Rutgers Cooperative Extension

horticulture.mgcafe.uky.edu

Photo: Jason Sturner / CC BY 2.0; resized and converted to WebP · CC BY 2.0

Image notes: American fringetree in flower. Jason Sturner / CC BY 2.0. Resized and converted to WebP.

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