Fringe Tree

A genus of about 120 species of mostly tender, deciduous trees and shrubs, found in tropical and subtropical E Asia, Australia, and eastern N America, with a few in Africa and Madagascar. There are just two hardy species, the better known being C. virginicus, which is widely grown for its delightful display of white, fringe-like blossoms. The name Chionanthus comes from the Greek Chion, "snow", and anthos, "flower". Chionanthus virginicus is one of the most reliable remedies for disorders of the liver and gall bladder. The bark was used in native American medicine as a remedy for wounds, toothache, and mouth and gum problems.

Spreading, deciduous shrub or small tree with bright green, ovate leaves, 5-10cm (2-4in) long, which have pale, downy undersides. Loose panicles, 10-20cm (4-8in) long, of fragrant, slender white flowers are borned on second-year wood, followed by blue-purple berries.

Common Name:	Fringe Tree
Botanical Name:	Chionanthus virginicus
Genus:	Chionanthus
Family:	Oleaceae
Native Location:	Eastern N America
Cultivation:	Well-drained soil in sun. Slow-growing in regions with cool summers. Flowers best in areas with long, hot summers.
Propagation:	By seed sown in autumn, which requires stratification; by softwood cuttings in spring; by budding in summer. Germination may take up to 18 months.
Harvest:	Bark is peeled from roots, which are removed as required, and dried for use in infusions, liquid extracts, and tinctures.
Height:	8m (25ft)
Width:	5m (15ft)
Hardiness:	Z4-8
Parts Used:	Root bark
Properties:	A bitter, tonic, alterative herb that stimulates the liver and gall bladder, and has both diuretic and laxative effects.
Medicinal Uses:	Internally for jaundice, cirrhosis, chronic hepatitis, pancreatitis, gallstones, enlarged spleen, poor liver function, bilious headache, and migraine. Also as a tonic in chronic illness. Externally for cuts, bruises, and scrapes.
Bibliography:	Encyclopedia of Herbs by Deni BrownCopyright © 1995, 2001 Dorling Kindersley Limited. pg. 167