Milky Way Tree 45G

Milky Way Tree in 45-Gallon Pot available in Jupiter, FL

Elegant, airy, and utterly enchanting—the Milky Way Tree (Chionanthus retusus 'Milky Way') is a refined flowering tree known for its breathtaking spring bloom: clouds of delicate, fringe-like white flowers that appear as if stars have landed in the garden. Native to Asia and perfectly suited for South Florida’s climate, this cultivar of Chinese Fringe Tree offers four-season beauty with its polished bark, glossy green leaves, and showy, fragrant blooms.

This 45-gallon specimen is mature, full-canopied, and ready to dazzle in your landscape or courtyard setting.

Care & Growing Info (Optimized for South Florida):

• Sunlight: Full sun to part shade. More sun means more flowers—aim for 6+ hours daily for best bloom.

• Watering: Moderate. Keep soil consistently moist while establishing; drought-tolerant once rooted in.

• Soil: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil with slightly acidic pH. Add compost when planting to boost nutrients.

• Fertilizer: Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring and midsummer to support blooms and leaf color.

• Growth Habit: Rounded, open canopy with upright to spreading branches. In a 45-gallon pot, expect 8–10 feet tall. Mature height reaches 15–25 feet tall with a similar spread.

• Temperature: USDA Zones 6–10. Well-suited to South Florida’s heat and humidity.

• Maintenance: Low. Prune only to shape or remove deadwood after flowering. Naturally graceful form.

Flower Notes:
Showy white blooms appear in spring in clusters that resemble airy fringe or lace. Lightly fragrant and pollinator-friendly, these flowers give the appearance of a soft “milky” haze—hence the name. Some trees may also develop small, dark blue berries that birds enjoy.

Medicinal & Nutritional Benefits:
Historically, parts of the Chionanthus genus have been used in traditional medicine for eye and liver health, though modern use of the ‘Milky Way’ variety is ornamental only. Flowers are non-toxic and attract beneficial insects and pollinators.

Ideal For:

• Pollinator and flowering gardens

• Entryway specimens or patio focal points

• Asian-inspired or celestial-themed landscapes

• Bird- and wildlife-friendly plantings

• Gardeners seeking a low-maintenance spring bloomer

Plant Classification:

• Scientific Name: Chionanthus retusus 'Milky Way'

• Plant Type: Ornamental flowering tree

• Family: Oleaceae (olive family)

• Class: Dicot

• Growth Form: Broadleaf deciduous perennial

  • Deciduous: Drops leaves briefly in winter for a fresh flush in spring

  • Perennial: Comes back year after year with reliable beauty

  • Broadleaf: Large, glossy leaves create a full and textured canopy

• Container Size: 45-gallon pot

Jupiter Farms & Nursery