Leaves are borne mostly near the upper ends of the twigs. Foliage is dark green and shiny above and paler beneath. The leaves are leathery to the touch. Fringetrees are likely to be the last plant to leaf out in the spring and are long-lived trees. Flowers are white and, when in full bloom, are strikingly attractive with drooping, fringed, or feathery blossoms.
Flowers are dioecious and fragrant.
Male flowers are said to be more attractive.