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Description
Chionanthus Retusus, commonly known as Chinese Fringe Tree, is a deciduous tree belonging to the Oleaceae family. Native to China, it is a small to medium-sized tree that can grow up to 20-30 feet tall and 15-25 feet wide. The tree produces fragrant, white, fringe-like flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. The flowers are followed by a blue-black fruit that attracts birds. The bark of the tree is grayish-brown, and the leaves are dark green, glossy, and oval-shaped.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Oleaceae |
| Genus | Chionanthus |
| Species | Retusus |
Appearance
Chionanthus Retusus has a graceful, rounded shape with a dense canopy that provides filtered shade. The tree’s bark is smooth and grayish-brown, and the leaves are oval-shaped, glossy, and dark green. In late spring to early summer, the tree produces fragrant, white, fringe-like flowers that cover the entire tree. The flowers are followed by a blue-black fruit that attracts birds. In the fall, the leaves turn yellow and drop, exposing the tree’s attractive branching pattern.
Care Guide
Chionanthus Retusus is easy to grow and maintain. Here are some care tips:- Water: The tree prefers moist, well-draining soil. Water deeply once or twice a week during the growing season.- Fertilization: Fertilize the tree in the spring with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer.- Soil: The tree prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. The soil should be moist, well-draining, and rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may produce fewer flowers.- Hardiness Zones: Chionanthus Retusus is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Chionanthus Retusus is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, here are some common issues to watch out for:- Scale insects: These small, oval-shaped insects suck the sap from the leaves, causing yellowing and stunted growth. Treat with insecticidal soap or oil.- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease causes a white, powdery coating on the leaves. Provide good air circulation and treat with a fungicide.- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes brown spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and treat with a fungicide.
Habitat
Chionanthus Retusus is native to China but is widely grown in gardens and parks throughout the world. The tree prefers moist, well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Question and Answer
Q: When is the best time to prune Chionanthus Retusus?
A: The best time to prune the tree is in late winter to early spring before new growth appears.
Q: How often should I fertilize Chionanthus Retusus?
A: Fertilize the tree once a year in the spring with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer.
Q: Does Chionanthus Retusus attract birds?
A: Yes, the tree’s blue-black fruit attracts birds.
Q: Is Chionanthus Retusus drought-tolerant?
A: No, the tree prefers moist, well-draining soil and requires regular watering.
Related Plants
– Chionanthus Virginicus- Syringa Reticulata- Magnolia Grandiflora- Lagerstroemia Indica
References
– Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Chionanthus retusus. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c710- University of Wisconsin-Madison. (n.d.). Chionanthus retusus. Retrieved from https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/chionanthus-retusus/
