Lawns Open Lawns Closed

Madison Square Park Conservancy is responsible for the maintenance of the park’s lawns which are in the process of spring reseeding. While the grass is establishing now, visitors should expect the majority of lawns to be ready for use in late May. Lawns are open daily for public use starting at 10 AM through 5 PM, weather permitting. Lawns are closed on Parade Days. Learn more about park hours and rules by visiting our FAQ page.

< Back to Arboretum

Fringe tree

Chionanthus virginicus

Chionanthus virginicus, also known as fringe tree, is native to the eastern portion of the United States. The first common name refers to the fragrant, narrow, fringe-like, white blossoms that appear in late May through June. It features spear-shaped leaves which turn yellow in Autumn and blue-black, live-like fruits which often sport a bloom once they mature.

Fringe trees are good trees for urban settings due to their rounded appearance, tolerance of air pollution, minimal need for pruning. They can reach anywhere from 10 to 40 feet in height.