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Types of Lilacs
While there are many lilac species, extensive cross breeding
has made them all similar. Even botanical experts sometimes
find them difficult to identify. All lilacs belong to the
genus Syringa. Common to most kinds are unlobed leaves and
flowers that grow in clusters. Among the best known are the
following:
Common
lilac (S. vulgaris): can reach 20' in height; mauve-colored fragrant flowers (can be of other hues); heart-shaped,
smooth leaves.
Persian
lilac (S. x persica): can grow to a height of 10';
fragrant pale-violet colored flowers about half the size of
those of the common lilac; narrow leaves on drooping branches;
makes a good hedge.
Chinese
or Rouen lilac (S. x chinensis): cross between
the Persian
(S. x persica) and the common lilac (S. vulgaris);
somewhat taller than the Persian; fragrant, pale-purple flowers
are similar to those of the common lilac but appear in greater
profusion; smaller leaves than those of the common lilac.
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| There's
nothing common about the lovely bloom of S. vulgaris. |
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