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.

Plant bare-root shrubs during the more excellent spring or fall months, from November through April. Dig a hole twice as wide as the root system and slightly more profound than its height. Position the shrub so that the top of the roots is level with the ground, and put back the soil dug over the roots. Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds, ensuring the mulch does not touch the shrub's stem. Water regularly, especially during the first year, to establish strong roots. Prune shrubs as needed to promote healthy growth. In the spring, fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer suited to the specific needs of the shrub.

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