Chionanthus virginicus ‘Dirr’

Chionanthus virginicus ‘Dirr’ is a highly underrated native tree that is easily grown, tolerant of urban settings, and requires little maintenance. It can tolerate full sun to part shade, and I can’t understand why it doesn’t get more use and remains a relatively fringe species in the world of landscape plants.

Fringe trees are beautiful trees, particularly in the late spring early summer when they become absolutely loaded with wispy fragrant white flowers giving it the appearance of clouds floating among the branches. In the early spring, they come to life as large nodes swell to reveal new bright green growth. As growth becomes established flowers follow for a period of weeks. Though the summer the tree practically takes care of itself, thriving in clay soil and conditions where other ornamental trees struggle. Near the end of summer the tree fruits with small blue berries, which are both ornamental and enjoyed by birds. The fall color is a subdued yellow that while not spectacular will still add beauty to a fall setting.