Chionanthus, commonly known as the fringe tree, is a genus of trees and shrubs that belong to the Oleaceae family. Some popular synonyms for chionanthus include snow flower, white fringe tree, and old man's beard. These plants are native to North America and Asia and are characterized by their small, fragrant white flowers that bloom in the spring. The fringe tree is widely known for its ornamental value and is commonly used as an accent tree in gardens and landscapes. The plant is also used for medicinal purposes, particularly in traditional Chinese medicine, where it is used to treat conditions such as arthritis and hypertension.