American Fringetree
Chionanthus virginicus
Last reviewed: June 2026
Chionanthus virginicus (American Fringetree) is a native deciduous tree blooming May through June with fragrant white fringe-like flowers. Found throughout eastern and southeastern United States from New York to Florida and west to Texas.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag American Fringetree as toxic to livestock.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
180"–360" H × 120"–240" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
AL, AR, DE, FL and 18 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
American fringetree is a small native tree prized for its spectacular display of fragrant, white fringe-like flowers in late spring. It has a naturally rounded, well-behaved shape and attractive dark green leaves that turn yellow in fall.
Growing American Fringetree
Grow American Fringetree in part sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 180 to 360 inches tall and spread 120 to 240 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
American Fringetree is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
Wildlife value
The abundant flowers attract bees, butterflies, and beetles during its May-June bloom period. Female trees produce dark blue berries that provide food for birds.
Common questions
- When does American Fringetree bloom?
- American Fringetree blooms during May and June, producing clusters of fragrant white flowers with distinctive fringe-like petals.
- What pollinators visit Chionanthus virginicus?
- American Fringetree attracts bees, butterflies, and beetles with its fragrant spring blooms, making it valuable for pollinator gardens.
- Where is American Fringetree native?
- Chionanthus virginicus is native to 23 states across the eastern and southeastern United States, from Massachusetts south to Florida and west to Texas and Oklahoma.
- What growing conditions does American Fringetree prefer?
- American Fringetree adapts to various light conditions from full sun to partial shade and tolerates a range of soil moisture levels, though it performs best with consistent moisture.
- Is American Fringetree toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag American Fringetree as toxic to livestock.
- Is American Fringetree HOA-friendly?
- American Fringetree is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow American Fringetree? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz