Chionanthus virginicus
Native to the eastern U.S., the American fringetree is a three-season all-star. It is perhaps at its best during early spring when fragrant and showy white blossoms cover its branches. But it’s a standout in late summer too, with showy blue-black fruits known as a food source for birds and wildlife. And it’s no slouch in the autumn either, with bright yellow leaves providing a dash of color. Typically, American fringetree is a relatively small multi-trunked tree, growing 12-20 feet tall. Also known as grancy greybeard, fringetree was used by the Cherokee to make teas to reduce fever and treat wounds, and is still used in herbal medicine to treat a variety of conditions. Fringetree is a member of the olive family, but its fruit is not considered edible for humans.
Planted by Friends of Silvermont in honor of Earth Day 2023
Photo credits:
- American fringetree, Jim Robbins, CC BY-NC-ND 4.0
- Flowers, Erick Lux, CC BY-NC-SA 2.0
- Leaves and flowers, Kristyna Culp, CC BY 4.0
- Fall foliage, Jim Robbins, CC BY-NC-ND 4.0
- Fruit, Jim Robbins, CC BY-NC-ND 4.0
