The tree puts out a chemical called jugalone that inhibits other woody species from germinating around the area. SMSU recently cut down an old Walnut that grew East of Ellis Hall. There are some living representatives along National, next to Cheek and Ellis. This family contains some famous genera other than the one listed below. It grows around Temple and in between Carrington and McDonald arena.
All members are woody and have opposite leaves, simple or pinnately compound.
The Fringe Tree is native to just a few counties South of Springfield and ranges mostly South from there. It does quite well further North when planted. The lone SMSU specimen grows on the Southeast corner of the Union. It's small yet fully grown. The leaves are simple, with smooth margins and occur opposite each other on the branch.