Description
Syringa vulgaris
Height: 8-12ft
Spread: 6-10ft
Zone: 3-7
Exposure: Full sun
Growth Rate: Moderate
Bloom Time/Color: April-May; purple
Uses: Naturalizing, hedge, massing, specimen, screen
Maintenance: Medium
Other: Fragrant, cut flower, deer resistant, attracts butterflies
The common or French lilac has been a long-standing cut flower staple and a sought-after plant for American homes. The large panicles of fragrant, four-petaled purple blossoms are an exciting welcome in spring and bloom for several weeks before fading amidst green, heart shaped leaves. Plants naturalize quite well and spread into large clumps that make great hedges or large backdrops for landscapes. Lilacs do best in well-drained, moist, fertile soil in full sun. Plants should be sited so they get good air circulation to avoid powdery mildew. Plants are also tolerant of clay soils.
