This deciduous shrub is spectacular in full bloom with an airy lightness. It is the softness of the 4-to-6-inch long clusters of fringe-like creamy white petals that make it look like it is glowing.

A little later to bloom in the spring are the white fringe trees, Chionanthus virginicus, always known to me growing up as Grandfather graybeard.

A little later to bloom in the spring are the white fringe trees, Chionanthus virginicus, always known to me growing up as Grandfather graybeard. Our next-door neighbor had one growing in their ...

The bloom time is short but the trees also offer excellent fall foliage and require little maintenance. Unfortunately, Japanese cherry is a short-lived tree with a lifespan of only 15 to 20 years.