Syringa 'Bailina': Thumbelina Lilac, a Dwarf Fragrant Pink Bloomer

Thumbelina Lilac (Syringa 'Bailina'), syn. S. 'Thumbelina', from the Fairytail series of dwarf lilacs, bears single light pink flowers in mid-to-late season. Rounded, compact habit at 6 feet high by 5 feet wide. Good resistance to powdery mildew. Lilac flowers are beloved for bouquets; hummingbirds and butterflies visit when in bloom. Generally forgiving, tolerant of roadside sites and neglect.

Growing Conditions

Reasonably fertile, well-drained soil in full sun; prefers neutral to slightly alkaline soil. Deadhead spent blossoms promptly for more robust blooms next year. Prune lightly in late winter or early spring. Plant in areas with good air circulation. Fire retardant—suitable near wildfire-prone homes. Requires chilling dormancy. Propagate by seed in cold frame, softwood cuttings or layer in early summer, graft in winter, bud in summer. Watch for dieback, leafroll virus, MLO, root knot nematode, Verticillium wilt, witches' broom, bacterial leaf spot, anthracnose, borers, scale, caterpillars.

Key Features at a Glance

• Height: 3–6 ft.
• Spread: 3–6 ft.
• Growth Habit: Spreading, Moderate
• Light: Full Sun to Part Shade
• Moisture: Medium
• Maintenance: Low
• Characteristics: Attracts Butterflies, Attracts Hummingbirds, Fragrant Flowers, Showy Flowers
• Bloom Time: Spring
• Flower Color: Pink
• Uses: Beds, Borders, Cut Flower, Flowering Tree, Hedge, Naturalizing, Roadside, Screening, Cottage Garden
• Type: Shrubs