Species |
Chionanthus pygmaeus |
Common Name |
Pgymy fringe tree |
Habitat |
Sand pine scrub |
Legal Status |
US – Endangered (1987), FL – Endangered |
Flowering Time |
February – April |
Distribution
Pygmy fringe tree grows primarily in scrub and turkey oak sandhills on the Lake Wales Ridge.
Description
One of the most beautiful of the Florida scrub plants, the Pygmy fringe tree is an endemic shrub or small tree growing to 6 feet. The small white spring-blooming flowers have a sweet-smelling fragrance.
Interesting Facts
The Pygmy fringe tree is related to Asian and American fringe trees, which grow as tall as 30 feet. The Pygmy fringe tree has all of the characteristics of the larger fringe trees, but only grows to 6 feet. This is due to its adaptation to a harsh environment.
Threats
Much of the habitat for this plant has been lost due to land clearing for residential development and citrus production.
Photos
GPS Coordinates
27.570185; – 81.505761
References
Floridata
The United States Botanic Garden
Description on the National Collection of Imperiled Plants
Plant Description from the Fish and Wildlife Service (pdf)