fringetree Oleaceae Chionanthus virginicus L.   symbol: CHVI3
	Leaf: Opposite or sometimes partially opposite, simple, ovate to elliptical, 4 to 8 inches long, pinnately-veined in shape with an entire margin, somewhat thickened, green above and paler below. Flower: Dioecious or polygamo-Dioecious; very showy, 1 inch long with a 4-lobed, white corolla, very fragrant, with many hanging from a long, 4 to 8 inch stalk (resemble a long white beard); appear in late spring. Fruit: Ovoid drupe, 3/4 inch long, dark blue to nearly black with a fleshy pulp that encloses a large, stone seed, ripen in late summer. Twig: Moderately stout, ashy-gray in color, smooth or downy, with scatterd warty lenticels; large, brown, broadly conical terminal bud; leaf scar with one bundle scar. Bark: Dark gray-brown in color, becoming somewhat furrowed with reddish scales. Form: A small tree or a large suckering shrub reaching up to 25 feet tall with opposite branches, a short trunk and a narrow, oblong crown.
	USDA Plants Database Chionanthus virginicus is native to North America. Range may be expanded by planting. See states reporting fringetree (opens a new window).