Spring Fleecing Fringe Tree

‘Spring Fleecing’ is a selected male form of American fringetree with upright growth and unusually full, fragrant white flower clusters. Because it is male, it flowers reliably but does not produce the blue fruit associated with female fringetrees. ## Siting and growth Give this deciduous tree sun or partial shade and room for a roughly 10-foot height and spread. The [cultivar profile from Pleasant Run Nursery](https://www.pleasantrunnursery.com/plant-name/Chionanthus-virginicus-Spring-Fleecing) identifies the selection as Sam Allen’s introduction from Tarheel Native Trees and lists zone 4 hardiness, white spring flowers, and tolerance of wet sites. The species profile from [UF/IFAS Extension](https://ask.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ST161) describes fringetree’s preference for moist soil and its ability to grow in wet ground. ## Flowers and placement The frothy panicles show well against a darker evergreen background and suit a specimen position or a mixed native planting. The foliage is narrow and dark green, with yellow fall color typical of American fringetree. Keep the root zone evenly moist while the tree establishes; choose a spot where the canopy can develop without repeated cutting. ## Maintenance Remove damaged or crossing branches as needed and keep the root area watered during establishment. Avoid heavy pruning, which reduces the natural flowering display.