Bloomerang Lilac: The Reblooming Garden Star

History

Reblooming (remontant) lilacs noted since early 1900s. Bloomerang (Syringa ‘Penda’) introduced 2009, instant hit. Older rebloomer ‘Josee’ (1970s France) is a likely parent.

Where to Grow

Dwarf flowering shrub, 4–5′ tall and wide. Hardy to Zone 3, performs best in cooler areas (above Zone 7).

Planting Tips

Plant like any container shrub: hole deep enough for root ball, twice as wide. Fertile, well‑drained soil. Spring planting gives a full season of enjoyment.

Growth Characteristics

Most consistent, prolific rebloomer. Heavy mid‑May bloom, rests in June, reblooms July through frost. Summer/fall panicles smaller than spring, but every branch flowers. Upright, fountain‑like arching branches. Resistant to powdery mildew, pseudomonas, phytophthora.

Blooms

Rare lilac‑purple hue (most rebloomers are pink/magenta). Color deepens in summer/fall. Fragrant, excellent cut flowers.

Pruning

Blooms on new growth. Light pruning + fertilizing after spring bloom encourages more new wood. Deadheading diverts energy to growth. Woody‑plant fertilizer helps. Even without pruning, it reblooms.

Companion Plants

Two strategies: (1) Pair with early‑spring bloomers (bleeding heart, Solomon’s seal, Siberian iris, catmint, azalea). (2) Pair with midsummer bloomers for the June gap (daylilies, Asiatic lilies, purple coneflower, phlox). Late‑summer/fall companions: evening primrose, sedum, mums.

Learn more about growing lilacs.