Common lilac (Syringa vulgaris 'Henri Robert') sih-RIN-gah vul-GAR-is Genus:  Syringa This cultivar has double bluish-purple flowers that open from violet buds in midseason. It forms a shrub 12 feet high by 8 feet wide. Noteworthy Characteristics:  Lilac flowers are beloved for bouquets, and when in bloom, hummingbirds and butterflies are drawn to them. Lilacs are generally a forgiving bunch, tolerant of roadside sites and neglect.  Care:  Grow in reasonably fertile, well-drained soil in full sun; prefers neutral to slightly alkaline soil. Promptly deadhead spent blossoms to produce more robust blooms for the following year. Prune lightly or renovate in late winter or early spring to maintain a healthy framework, remembering that most species form flowers the previous season. Plant in areas with good air circulation to thwart disease. Because lilacs are fire retardant, they can be considered for planting near homes that are susceptible to wildfires. Most lilacs require a period of chilling dormancy. Propagation:  Sow seed in a cold frame when fresh or in the spring. Take softwood cuttings or layer in early summer. Graft in winter; bud in summer. Problems:  Powdery mildew, dieback, leafroll virus, mycoplasma-like organisms (MLO), root knot nematode, Verticillium wilt, witches' broom, bacterial leaf spot, anthracnose, borers, scale, caterpillars.

Overview

Height 10 ft. to 15 ft. Spread 6 ft. to 10 ft. Growth Habit Spreads Growth Pace Moderate Grower Light Full Sun to Part Shade Moisture Medium Moisture Maintenance Low Characteristics Attracts Butterflies, Attracts Hummingbirds, Fragrant Flowers, Showy Flowers Bloom Time Spring Flower Color Purple Uses Beds and Borders, Cut Flower, Flowering Tree, Hedge, Naturalizing, Roadside, Screening Style Cottage Garden Seasonal Interest Spring Interest Type Shrubs