Description
Common Lilac is actually not native to the United States but of the Balkans. It is so widespread that most people think it is. Commonly found along abandoned farmsteads. Many years ago I was riding my old Kawasaki (still have it) through Wichita Falls, Texas when I got a whiff of Lilac fragrance. Looking down the side street I spotted the Lilac 3 blocks down. That attests to the power of the common lilac!
Scientific Name: Syringa vulgaris
Zone: 3-7
Mature Height: 8-16 ft
Mature Width: 8-12 ft
Fruit: Seed pods form where the flowers bloomed
Flowers: Lilac to purple flowers form large and fragrant, cone shaped clusters of tiny flowers
Bloom Time: April
Growth Rate: Medium (12” – 24” per year), but with plenty of water and fertilizer can grow very quickly
Soil: Does best with acidic, moist, silty loams – but can grow in almost any soil
Drought Tolerance: Poor
Flood Tolerance: Moderate
Sun Requirements: Sun or part-shade
Fall Color: Creamy Yellow
Wildlife Value: Great food resource for mammals and many types of birds. Also provides great cover.
