Lilac Shrub - Syringa reticulata

The Lilac Shrub, also commonly known as the Japanese Tree Lilac, produces panicles of creamy white flowers that have a subtle spicy scent. This shrub is native to Japan; however, it grows well in many regions across North America, growing best in regions with cool summers (zone 3-7). It is a resilient plant prized for its ornamental appeal.

This is one of the only lilacs that can be grown as a true tree; however, it can be maintained a multi-stemmed shrub. It is deciduous and produces lush green leaves across the summer. The bark of this shrub is reddish brown in color complete with lenticles that are reminiscent of cherry bark. As the bark matures, it eventually turns grey. The striking nature of this plant makes it an excellent specimen plant for your home garden.

Plant Details - Lilac Shrub

Family: Oleaceae

Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 3–7

Light Requirement: Full sun to light shade

Water Needs: Moderate

Height: 20 - 30 ft

Spread: 15 - 20 ft

Growth Rate: Moderate

Bloom Time: Early to mid-summer

Flower Color: Creamy white

Wildlife Value: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators

Large, upright panicles are borne in early to mid-summer giving way to beautiful creamy white flowers. The flowers are fragrant, with a slightly spicy scent. When in full bloom, this showy shrub will attract a range of wildlife; insect pollinators, butterflies, hummingbirds and bees!

In the winter, the Lilac Shrub adds visual appeal to the garden through its exfoliating young branches. They gentle shed their bark and the under layer is a striking reddish-brown in color.

Landscape Uses and Maintenance - Lilac Shrub

It is easy to grow and is usually pest and disease-free. This shrub requires medium moisture, well-drained, slightly acidic soils but is relatively drought-tolerant once establishes.

While it will tolerate some shade, best flowering will occur when planted in an area with full sun. Prune this shrub when needed immediately after flowering. Plant in an area with good air circulation. Can be used either in a mixed shrub border or as a specimen.

Noteworthy Characteristics

Showy flowers and bark, easy to grow, attracts pollinators.

This attractive shrub will add visual appeal whether planted in a shrub border or as a focal point. Shop for the Lilac Shrub online at TN Nursery. For 68 years, we have served the landscaping industry and homeowners with specimen plants.

This Is How Your Plants Will Look upon Delivery

Bloom Season

Spring

Bloom/Foliage Color

Purple

Height at Maturity

Under 10 Feet

Care

Lilac shrubs thrive in well-drained soil and benefit from regular watering, especially during dry spells. After flowering, prune to maintain shape and remove spent blooms. In early spring, fertilize with a balanced fertilizer to encourage vigorous growth and abundant blooms.

Plant Reproduction

Lilac shrubs spread through suckers and seed dispersal.

How to Grow and Care for Bare Root Shrubs

Bare root shrubs are a budget-friendly and efficient way to plant during the cooler months when they’re dormant. Before planting, soak the roots in water for 3–6 hours to rehydrate them. Choose a site with the appropriate light exposure for the species—most flowering shrubs prefer full to partial sun. Dig a hole wide enough to spread out the roots and deep enough so the crown (where the roots meet the stems) sits level with the soil surface.

Mound a bit of soil at the bottom of the hole, spread the roots over it, and backfill with native soil while gently firming it to remove air pockets. Water deeply after planting to settle the roots. Keep the soil moist but not soggy during the first growing season to encourage healthy establishment.

Mulch around the base (not touching the stems) to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Prune lightly to remove any broken branches and to shape after the first flush of growth. With minimal care, bare root shrubs will leaf out beautifully and grow into reliable, long-term landscape anchors.

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