Fringe Tree
Chionanthus virginicus
PLANT NAME
Fringe Tree
COMMON NAMES
Old Man's Beard, Poison Ash, Snowdrop Tree, White Fringe.
BOTANICAL NAME
Chionanthus virginicus
IDENTIFICATION
A deciduous shrub or small tree native to the eastern United States. Noted for its spectacular, fragrant, drooping clusters of white, fringe-like flowers in late spring. Produces dark blue, olive-like drupes in autumn.
IDENTIFICATION IMAGE
AI ART TO BE GENERATED
PARTS TRADITIONALLY USED
Root bark and sometimes trunk bark.
CULINARY USES
Not used for culinary purposes.
TRADITIONAL USES
Traditionally used by Native Americans to treat skin inflammations and sores. Later utilized by herbalists for liver and gallbladder complaints, jaundice, and as a bitter tonic to stimulate digestion.
GROWING / HARVESTING
Grows in moist woods, stream banks, and hillsides. The root bark is best harvested in the autumn after leaves have fallen, or early spring. Bark is stripped and dried.
SAFETY / CAUTION
Avoid in cases of gallstones or bile duct obstruction. May cause vomiting in high doses. Always consult your doctor before using this or any herbal remedy.
RELATED PLANTS
Chinese fringe tree (Chionanthus retusus); related to olives and ashes (Oleaceae family).