A splendid large shrub or small tree, native to Asia. It is hardy to -10 degrees F, but will not take desert heat. In late spring, the tree is covered in white, fringed flowers.
Females have small purple fruit that follows that is attractive to birds.
Needs ample moisture to perform the best. Height to 15 feet. A native Chionanthus, C. virginicus, is known as American Fringe Tree or Old Man's Beard. Flowers are larger than C. retusus and fragrant.