The Syringa hyacinthiflora 'SMNSHSO' SCENTARA PURA, or lilac, typically starts flowering in late April or early May.
lilac
Syringa hyacinthiflora 'SMNSHSO' SCENTARA PURA
The delightful Lilac (Syringa hyacinthiflora 'SMNSHSO' SCENTARA PURA) is a fantastic deciduous shrub boasting fragrant clusters of pale lilac and pink flowers. Its panicles bloom mid-spring, bringing a sweet scent to any environment. With its deep green foliage, Lilac reaches an average height of 3-4 ft and thrives in well-draining soils with full sun exposure. It provides season-long charm and beauty, as well as deeper shades of green during the summer months. Very easy to grow and maintain, this plant requires minimal pruning and very little water. The Lilac has an incredibly enchanting presence, making it an ideal option for any garden bed or border.
Cycle:
Perennial
Watering:
Average
Propagation:
Layering Propagation,Cutting,Grafting Propagation,Division,Seed Propagation
Hardiness Zone:
2 - 8
Flowers:
Pale lavender Flowers
Sun:
Full sun
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
green
Growth Rate:
Low
Maintenance:
Moderate
Care Level:
Medium
watering
Lilac (Syringa hyacinthiflora 'SMNSHSO' SCENTARA PURA) should be watered July through September when the plant is actively growing. Water deeply and thoroughly as needed, providing it with enough moisture to moisten the soil. Generally watering once a week should provide the right amount of moisture. However, during the summer months in hotter climates, Lilac plants may need to be watered more often. During the winter months when the plant is dormant, allow the soil to dry out between watering sessions. Additionally, make sure to check that the soil is well-draining and not soggy.
sunlight
Lilac (Syringa hyacinthiflora 'SMNSHSO' SCENTARA PURA) requires full sun in order to thrive. It should receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight every day. The sun's rays should reach the lilac directly; any obstructions, such as a fence, wall or other structure, can reduce the amount of direct sunlight the plant gets and diminish its growth and flowering. If located in partial shade, the lilac will still flower and remain healthy, but it will be much less abundant. The variety of lilac you have will also influence how much sunlight it needs, so if you aren’t sure how much sun your particular species of lilac will need, it is best to consult your local nursery or garden center for advice.
pruning
Lilac bushes (Syringa hyacinthiflora 'SMNSHSO' Scentara Pura) should be pruned in the late winter or early spring before new growth begins, usually late February or early March. Pruning should consist of cutting back the previous year's growth by roughly 1/3. This will encourage forth growth and bloom from the bush. Additionally, remove any dead or diseased branches and any crossing branches to allow for better air circulation. Finally, prune away any shoots that are growing up from the bottom of the bush in order to create a more balanced shape.
Season
Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering
Hardiness Map
FAQ
Are lilacs popular in gardens?
Yes, lilacs are very popular in gardens. This is because they are reliable, attractive, and easy to care for. They come in a variety of beautiful colours and can be grown as a shrub or small tree, which makes them perfect for a variety of garden styles. Lilacs are very low maintenance and are known to be quite drought tolerant, which makes them ideal for gardeners who don't have a lot of time to fuss over their plants. In addition, their scented blooms are a wonderful addition to any outdoor area.
How fast do lilacs grow?
Lilacs grow at a moderate speed, with an average mature height of 6-10 feet and width of 4-8 feet. They typically add two to four feet to their height each year depending on soil and climate conditions. They can be pruned to remain smaller and are quite hardy, though they might struggle in a colder climate with harsher winters. They prefer full sunlight and good drainage. With proper planting and care, lilacs can be expected to thrive and reach their mature growth size within five to seven years.
Can you grow lilacs from cutting?
Yes, you can grow lilacs from cuttings. It is an easy and effective way to propagate lilac bushes. Taking cuttings from actively growing lilacs in the summer is the best time. The cuttings should be 8-10'' long and straight-shooting, with several buds on them. Cut the cuttings about a half-inch below the bottom set of leaves. Dip the end of the cutting into rooting hormone and plant it into some moist soil, being sure to tamp it down firmly. Water the cutting well and keep it out of direct sunlight in a semi-shaded area. In a few weeks, the lilac cutting should begin to form roots and the leaves will soon grow fuller.
Are insects are attract to lilacs?
Yes, insects are attracted to lilacs. This is because the sweet scent of lilacs attracts many pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, while the small size of the flowers and structures make it easy for these insects to land. Additionally, the petals and nectaries of the flower are often quite accessible for them to access the sweet nectar inside. It is this combination of scent and accessibility that helps make lilacs popular among numerous types of insects.
How do you propagate lilacs?
To propagate lilacs from a cutting, it is best to select a six to ten-inch stem with 3-5 buds on it. To do this, use sharp pruning shears to cut the stem at a forty-five-degree angle just below an outward-facing bud. Strip off all but two leaves on the cutting and prepare a pot with a well draining potting mix. Poke a hole in the center of the pot and gently insert the cutting. Firm the potting mix around the cutting, being careful to not cover the two leaves. Water generously and place the pot in a bright, indirect light area. It is best to maintain a constant temperature between 65-70°F. In a few weeks, you should begin to see new growth appearing on the cutting. Once the roots become nice and established you can transplant the lilac into the garden.
How do you prevent lilacs from becoming overgrown?
To prevent lilacs from becoming overgrown, it is important to prune regularly. You should prune after every flowering cycle in late spring or early summer, making sure to remove any dead or diseased branches right away. Avoid pruning too severely, as this can cause stress to the plant, and wait for new buds to sprout before trimming too much new growth. Additionally, fertilize in late winter or early spring to help promote healthy blooming and vigorous growth.
Is there a variety of lilac that has double flower?
Yes, there is a variety of lilac that has double flowers. It is called Syringa x hyacinthiflora and is a deciduous shrub which produces an abundance of flowers in mid to late spring. It typically grows to between 4-6 feet in height and has a width of up to 8 feet. It has a somewhat weeping form, which looks magnificent when adorned with the clusters of double flowers. Syringa x hyacinthiflora has fragrant, pink or purple blooms that are arranged in pairs within one cup-shaped flower. The foliage is dark lush green, making the flowers a truly stunning sight when in full bloom.
How long is the average blooming period for lilacs?
The average blooming period for lilacs depends on the variety, but it can range from one to four weeks. The common European lilac blooms for two to three weeks, though some varieties may bloom longer. To maximize the blooming period, it is best to plant varieties with different blooming times.
