Common Lilac
Syringa vulgaris
Oleaceae · Shrub
The classic cottage-garden lilac fills late spring with intensely fragrant flower panicles above heart-shaped leaves. It needs winter chill to bloom well.
- · Prune right after flowering; buds form on old wood.
- · Give full sun and good air circulation to limit mildew.
- · Remove suckers to keep a shapely shrub.
At a glance
- Growing zones: 3-7
- Sun: Full sun
- Water: Moderate
- Maintenance: Low
- Type: Shrub
- Mature size: 8-15 ft tall · 6-12 ft wide
- Bloom season: Mid to late spring · Purple, lilac, white
- Pollinator friendly: Yes
- Container suitable: Best in ground
- Cold tolerance: Hardy to -40F
- Heat tolerance: Moderate
- Soil: Neutral to alkaline, well-drained soil
- Growth rate: Moderate
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