Less ubiquitous in the landscape than the dogwood, the white fringetree (Chionanthus virginicus) is a great native selection for a specimen as either a large shrub or a small tree. Blooming and leafing in April and May, the tree takes its name from its numerous white clusters of feathery flowers that are some of the last tree-borne flowers to appear in spring. No serious pests attack this species beyond some minor foliar fungal diseases and insects, which often times do not require treatment. In recent years, however, it has been noted that the emerald ash borer, an invasive beetle, will sometimes feed on the white fringetree. White fringetree prefers full sun to partial shade and moist, fertile, acidic soils, but is quite adaptable to numerous situations. 

–Kevin McDonald and Mike Burke