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CHIONANTHUS virginicus
Commonly known as American fringe tree, Old man's beard, Poison ash, Snowflower
Large white slightly fragrant flowers. Best grown in full sun
Further Reading....
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DeciduousOpposite, glossy, dark-green leaves to 20cm (8in) long.
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White
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Height3m (10ft)
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Spread3m (10ft)
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Tall ShrubSpreading shrub or small tree
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Hardy - average winterHardy through most of the UK apart from inland valleys, at altitude and central/northerly locations. May suffer foliage damage and stem dieback in harsh winters in cold gardens. Plant can withstand temperatures down to -10°C (14°F)
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Full sun
CHIONANTHUS virginicus
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Additional FeaturesGood to knowSome plants have male or female flowers only and may not fruit. Lower branches may be removed to encourage a tree-like habit.Pests & DiseasesNone.Place of originEastern USA.
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Flower ShapePaniclesPendent panicles to 20cm (8in)
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HardinessFully hardy
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Leaf marginEntire
(see photos above) -
Leaf shapeElliptic
(see photos above) -
Pruning groupPruning group 1Suitable for: Deciduous and evergreen trees, and some deciduous shrubs.
Pruning: Minimal pruning required. Prune wayward or crossing branches to maintain a healthy framework.
When: When dormant in the late winter/early spring. Some in the summer/autumn to prevent bleeding of sap.
RHS group 1 -
Scented PlantsScented flowersDelicate, fresh scent.
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Seasonal InterestSummer
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Soil ConditionsAcid / ericaceous lovingFertile well drained soil
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Tree ShapeRounded to broadly spreading
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Chionanthus - Growing Guide
3m (10ft)
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3m (10ft) |
Useful extras...

Fertilisers & Feeds - Vitax
Q4 Pelleted Fertiliser
A useful fertiliser suitable for use on a wide variety of plants. Q4 provides all the nutrients and trace elements essential for vigorous growth, abundant flowering and ripening of fruit.
3 options from £6.00

Fertilisers & Feeds - Empathy
Rootgrow mycorrhizal fungi
Recommended by the RHS. Contains Rootgrow™ mycorrhizal fungi. Suitable for all trees and shrubs (except rhododendrons, azaleas, heathers, cranberries and blueberries)
2 options from £6.00

Fertilisers & Feeds - Empathy
All-purpose Seaweed Stimulant
All-purpose organic concentrated seaweed feed that is a ready to use, derived from sustainable harvested kelp, that can be used on all outdoor and indoor plants, except acid loving plants.
Perfect used in conjunction with Rootgrow™.
Only £7.50

Garden Goodies
Slate Plant Labels
These wonderfully tactile natural slate plant labels are hand made in Cornwall and come with a chalk pen.
Just stick them in your pot or border. Pack of 6.
Only £10.20

Garden Goodies
Slate Tie-on Plant Labels
Hand made in Cornwall, these delightful natural slate labels are perfect for pots.
Comes with chalk pen. Pack of 5
Only £10.20