Spring is a great time to be a gardener! There’s a never-ending parade of plants awakening from their slumber, blooming and leafing out in all their glory. One of the finest of these spring bloomers is fringe tree (Chionanthus virginicus). This small tree is considered by many to be one of our most beautiful native plants.
Fringe tree flowers bloom in late spring as the foliage emerges.
Photo Credit: Gerald L. Klingaman
Plant fringe tree in a spot where it can shine on its own.
Photo Credit: Gerald L. Klingaman
Fringe tree is native throughout the Southeast, but unfortunately it isn’t really abundant anywhere. Also known as Grancy Graybeard and old man’s beard, its loose, snow-white flower panicles flow from the branches, much like facial hair. Each flower on the 6-inch-long panicles has four strappy petals, creating an overall impression of puffy, white clouds. This lovely tree blooms in late spring – as the dogwoods are finishing their show and other trees are leafing out – adding another layer of splendor and texture to the garden.
The species grows as a multistemmed tree or large shrub, usually reaching about 15-20 feet tall and wide. (It can reach 30 feet in the wild, but such specimens are rare.) It’s also notoriously slow-growing – 6 inches is about it for the year.
Fringe tree is deciduous, and it leafs out in opposite, 6-inch-long, toothless, glossy, green leaves as it blooms. Individual plants are dioecious (meaning they’re either male or female). The male plants are a bit more showy thanks to their longer flower petals. (Note: You need both plants somewhat near each other to produce the ethereal springtime show.)
Alas, as beautiful as fringe tree is, it’s not too common in gardens – but it’s not for lack of trying. The tree has so far eluded all attempts at commercial-scale propagation by cuttings, and grafting has been problematic due to the need for a good rootstock. When you do find this species, chances are the tree was raised from seed (which requires two years to germinate). Because the tree grows so slowly, it’s typically only grown by native plant nurseries willing to devote the time needed to produce it. And since the tree fares poorly bareroot, it’s likely sold in a pot or balled and burlapped (B&B).
Fringe tree does best in fertile soil high in organic matter that doesn’t get too dry during summer. (It’s often found in boggy ground near a stream in the wild.) It will grow in light shade, but for the best blooms, make sure your tree gets full sun. I think this lovely native works best in an out-of-the-way spot where it can be the center of attention when it puts on its snow-white bloom show. Sure, it’ll take a few years before your fringe tree grows into its full glory, but it’s one treat that’s definitely worth the wait!
