Species Chinese lilac
plum flowers with pink center, lime-green leaves and stems

Chinese lilac

Syringa chinensis 'Red Rothomagensis'

The Chinese Lilac (Syringa chinensis 'Red Rothomagensis') is a deciduous shrub with a tight, upright form that produces a fragrant show of vibrant red-purple flowers in early spring. Reaching an average size of four to six feet tall and just as wide, with arching stems, the foliage displays burgundy tinged leaves that turn dark green and provide a vivid background to the colorful blooms. During summer, the scented clusters of tubular flowers are replaced by multiple-seeded oval-shaped fruits. This hardy shrub is easy to maintain and prefers full sun, well-drained soil and regular watering. Great for attracting bees and butterflies to the garden or to line a walkway, the Chinese lilac provides welcome spring color.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Cutting,Layering Propagation,Grafting Propagation,Division,Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

3 - 7

Flowers:

Reddish purple Flowers In Spring

Sun:

Full sun

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,red

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Chinese lilac (Syringa chinensis 'Red Rothomagensis') should be watered deeply once a week. It should not be left to completely dry out or ever sit in standing water. During the growing season, water the plant deeply enough that moisture reaches its root system. Aim for about 1 – 1½ inches of water per week. During dry periods, water a little more often or for a longer period of time until the soil is moist. In the winter, watering should be reduced until the plant is dormant.

sunlight

Chinese lilac grows best in full sun, but can also tolerate partial shade. It prefers at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day for the best blooms. For optimal growth and flowering, Chinese lilac should receive morning sun and afternoon shade.

pruning

Chinese lilac (Syringa chinensis 'Red Rothomagensis') should be pruned in late winter or early spring, shortly before new growth begins. Only light pruning is necessary, and only dead, damaged, diseased, or crossing branches should be removed. Pruning should not exceed 1-third of the shrub's total growth, and should be focused on maintaining an open center and providing proper air circulation. After pruning, it can be beneficial to feed the shrub with a balanced fertilizer and water thoroughly.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Chinese lilac typically starts flowering in late April or early May.

Hardiness Map