Chionanthus retusus

RHS Plant Profile
Chinese fringe tree

Synonyms

Chionanthus retusus var. serrulatus

Trees Shrubs

A stunningly different little tree that can also be grown as a multi stemmed shrub. The clusters of fragrant snow white fringed flowers are the source of its common name, appearing in May to June. The flowers are followed by bluish-black berries, much to the delight of the birds. The glossy mid-green leaves are held on a broadly spreading rounded canopy, changing to a yellow in autumn. With bronze coloured peeling bark, a point of interest in every season

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

4-8 metres

Max Spread

2.5-4 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
20–50 years
Max Spread
2.5-4 metres
Max Height
4-8 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Well–drained or Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H6

Colour & Scent

Fragrance Flower
Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Oleaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Spreading branched
Genus
Chionanthus are small deciduous trees or large srhubs, with simple leaves in pairs, and loose terminal panicles of whtie flowers with 4 narrow petals, sometimes followed by blue-black berries
Name Status
Correct

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in rich, free-draining soil, this tree will grow in partial shade, however the flowers will be much better in a full sun location

Propagation

Propagate by seed when ripe, or by layering a low hanging branch in spring or autumn

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Low Maintenance
  • Flower borders and beds

Pruning

See pruning group 1

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free