City Trees is a premier publication focused on urban + community forestry. In each issue, you’ll learn how to best manage the trees in your community and more!
Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/26931
estry is making the annual rounds to visit wholesale tree nurseries to select and tag trees for planting. Those foresters who order a specific list of trees by phone or through a broker are missing an opportunity to discover hidden treasures. O One small species that is well worth the search is Chinese fringetree (Chionanthus retusus). Originally intro- duced from Asia in 1845, it is hardy from USDA Zone 5 to 9b/10a. While the native fringetree (Chionanthus vir- ginicus) may be better known, Chinese fringetree has consistently provided superior performance in Savannah, Georgia. Chinese fringetree can be grown as a standard in tree form, with a mature height and width range of 15 to 25 feet (4.57 to 7.62 m). This superb tree has many desir- able attributes. In the spring it is an absolute showstopper, displaying an explosion of cascading lacy white blooms on new terminal shoots as foliage emerges (whereas the native fringetree flowers on older wood, prior to leaf emergence). During the grow- ing season, the rounded leaves are thick and leathery with a lustrous dark green color that persists late into the ne of the most enjoyable and rewarding aspects of urban for- year. In Savannah, the green slowly changes to yellow in December or even into January. Chinese fringetree is tolerant of a wide range of site conditions. It grows well in full sun to partial shade, can handle occasional drought or wet feet, has few pest problems, and can thrive in the heat. One potential criticism from a management standpoint is that once established, annual terminal shoot growth can approach two feet or more. This can lead to an unbalanced crown if not corrected. Periodic pruning is neces- sary to maintain the shape and form of specimen trees; however, the effort is well worth the reward. Chionanthus retusus ‘Tokyo Tower’ is a new introduction from Japan with a nar- row, upright growth habit that offers a great option for those smaller planting spaces that don’t quite accommodate a larger tree. NOTE: Trees of Merit are not suitable for every climate and site condition. Variations in regional performance will apply. If you are using a Tree of Merit in your municipality, please share your experience with it on the SMA Listserve. —Bill Haws, Forestry Administrator for the City of Savannah Park & Tree Department, Savannah, Georgia Above: The lovely flowers of Chionanthus retusus Left: Chinese fringetree in Savannah, Georgia • Photos by Bill Haws