White Fringetree is a stunning small tree in the olive family, but the cultivar Amanda Shine (formerly Bob Moore) is an especially showy selection with lovely variegated leaves. The genus name Chionanthus translates to "snow flower," aptly named considering the airy and frothy, creamy white flower clusters reminiscent of a dusting of fresh snow. These fragrant flowers attract various pollinators and the leaves host a number of moth caterpillars. Plants are dioecious, having either male or female flowers, and while the male flowers are somewhat showier, the female flowers are followed by bluish -black fruits that are attractive to birds and other wildlife. Generally, variegated plants should be given light shade to avoid scorching of the leaves, though the plant will tolerate full sun with enough moisture.
Conditions: Full sun to part shade; best in light shade to prevent scorch; prefers moist, fertile soil; widely adaptable; tolerates black walnut and some urban conditions
Size: 12'-20’ tall, 12'-30’ wide
Zone: 3 - 9
Wildlife Value: Flowers attract pollinators, including bees and butterflies; host to a number of moth caterpillars including Inkblot Palpate, Fringetree Sallow, Waved Sphinx, Rustic Sphinx, and Fawn Sphinx; fruits eaten by birds and small mammals; plants may be browsed by deer
Photo: David Korbonits