Shrub
Common Lilac
Syringa vulgaris
Deliciously fragrant spring-flowering shrub, a cottage garden classic.
- Full sun
- 2–5 m
- 2–4 m
- H6
- May
- Deciduous
Overview
Syringa vulgaris produces large, richly scented flower panicles in late spring. A reliable, easy-care shrub for borders and cutting gardens.
At a Glance
Sun
Full sun
Height
2–5 m
Spread
2–4 m
Hardiness
H6
Flowers
May
Soil
Chalk, Loam
Moisture
Moist well drained
Habit
Rounded
Water
Moderate
Maintenance
Moderate
Growing Conditions
Min. Temperature
-25°C
pH Range
6.5–7.5
Fertility
Fertile
Drainage
Free Draining
Aspect Suitability
- South-facing
Site Tolerance
- Drought
Foliage
Persistence
Deciduous
Seasonal Timeline
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Flowering
Propagate
- Flowering May
- Propagate Jun Jul
Maintenance Calendar
- Jun Remove spent flower heads
- Jul Prune immediately after flowering
Garden Design
Works well in: Cottage
Wildlife Value
- Bees
- Butterflies