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Lilac
Scientific Name: Syringa vulgaris L.
Family: Oleaceae

Show Larger Picture Syringa vulgaris, Britton, N.L., and A. Brown. 1913. Illustrated flora of the northern states and Canada. Vol. 2: 724. Courtesy of Kentucky Native Plant Society.

Recommended Temperature Zone: sunset: 1-11 blooms irregularly in 12-16,18-22 USDA: 3b-9b Sun Exposure: Full sun Origin: Europe and North Africa Growth Habits: Deciduous shrub, up to 15 feet tall (4.5 m); simple, dark green, opposite, heart shaped leaves 2 to 4 inches long (5-10 cm), 1.6 to 3 inches wide (4-7.5 cm) Watering Needs: Regular water in the spring, slightly alkaline soil Propagation: Cuttings, seeds

Cultural Practices:
The lilacs bloom on the previous year wood. Pruning should be done after the blooming is finished. They transplant easily.

Blooming Habits:
Showy, fragrant, light purple, pink or even white flowers, in mid-spring, in large terminal clusters, 4 to 8 inches long (10-20 cm). Without enough winter chilling, lilac don't bloom properly. Some hybrids like "descanso" need much less chilling.