Syringa Vulgaris - Sering - 40-60 cm

Syringa vulgaris – Common Lilac

Syringa vulgaris, commonly known as Common Lilac, is a beautiful deciduous shrub that produces an abundance of highly fragrant flower clusters in spring. Depending on the variety, the flowers can be white, pink, lilac, purple or deep violet. Its wonderful fragrance makes the lilac a real highlight in the spring garden.

The Common Lilac can grow into a substantial shrub of approximately 3–5 metres high and 2–4 metres wide. It has an upright growth habit and gradually develops into a full, well-branched shrub. It is ideal as a solitary specimen, but can also be used in mixed shrub borders or informal hedges.

Syringa vulgaris prefers a sunny position. The more sunlight it receives, the more abundantly it will generally flower. It grows well in fertile, humus-rich and well-drained soil. Neutral to slightly alkaline soil is ideal. Avoid areas where water remains for long periods.

The fragrant flowers are attractive to bees, bumblebees and other pollinating insects. After flowering, the plant may produce seed capsules, although its main ornamental value lies in its spectacular spring flowering and wonderful fragrance.

Syringa vulgaris is very hardy and requires relatively little maintenance. Remove faded flower clusters preferably immediately after flowering. This keeps the shrub looking tidy and prevents unnecessary energy being invested in seed production. Major rejuvenation pruning is best carried out immediately after flowering, as lilacs flower on wood formed during the previous year.

Plant details

• Botanical name: Syringa vulgaris

• Common name: Common Lilac

• Type: Deciduous shrub

• Height: approx. 3–5 m

• Width: approx. 2–4 m

• Flowering period: April – May

• Flower colour: white, pink, lilac or purple, depending on the variety

• Fragrance: strongly scented

• Position: full sun

• Soil: fertile, humus-rich and well-drained

• pH: neutral to slightly alkaline

• Hardiness: very hardy

• Planting distance: approx. 1.5–3 m, depending on use

• Pruning: immediately after flowering

• Uses: specimen plant, shrub border, informal hedge, cottage garden and naturalistic garden

• Pollinator friendly: yes

• Special features: richly flowering, highly fragrant and very hardy