Quick answer: White fringetree (Chionanthus virginicus) is native to 21 states. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. It's typically seed, verified 15 Sep 2026.
Photo: Eric Hunt, Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Where it's native
Listed in the directory as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Part Shade |
|---|---|
| Water | High water, Moist |
| Soil | Loose, moist, sandy soils |
| Bloom | Bloom Apr-Jun |
| Height | Up to 30 ft tall |
| Wildlife value | Berries attract birds and wildlife, browsed by animals, larval host for rustic sphinx moth |
Buying it
Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (15 Sep 2026), via Amazon.
Sold as: Seed via Amazon · listing verified 15 Sep 2026
See where to buy →Quick answers about White fringetree
Where is White fringetree native?
White fringetree (Chionanthus virginicus) is native to 21 states across the Northeast, Midwest and South. Check your state's page in this directory for the full list of plants native where you live.
When does White fringetree bloom?
White fringetree blooms Apr-Jun. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does White fringetree need?
Light: Part Shade. Water: High water, Moist. Soil: Loose, moist, sandy soils. Mature height: Up to 30 ft tall.
Is White fringetree good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Berries attract birds and wildlife, browsed by animals, larval host for rustic sphinx moth.
Is White fringetree deer-resistant or drought-tolerant?
White fringetree is tolerates shade.
Where can I buy real White fringetree seed or plants?
We found a listing sold as seed that names the true species, last checked 15 Sep 2026. Look for the scientific name Chionanthus virginicus on any listing.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with White fringetree.
- Shortleaf pine Pinus echinata
- Black willow Salix nigra
- Blackjack oak Quercus marilandica
- Willow oak Quercus phellos
- Sweetbay magnolia Magnolia virginiana
- Sassafras Sassafras albidum
Also listed under
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