Chionanthus retusus, otherwise known as the Chinese fringetree, is an easy to grow ornamental small tree that is truly spectacular when in full bloom, being covered in thick, white blossom.
Sometimes seen as a multi-stemmed shrub, it is deciduous and produces a lovely, warm, autumn display before dropping its ovate shaped, leathery leaves. When young they are downy on the undersides.
The fragrant flowers appear in terminal clusters in late spring to early summer and have fringe-like petals. the female flowers, if fertilised, produce clusters of olive like, green fruits which mature to black and are a good source of food for birds and other wildlife.
They are suited to medium to larger gardens and go well alongside lawns where you can appreciate the wonderful displays of blossom to full extent.