Lee Valley Tools Gardening Newsletter
Vol. 3, Issue 2
April 2008
 
Growing Lilacs
 


Beautiful lilac blooms
Consult with gardening center staff to determine the most appropriate lilac bushes for your purposes.

Tree lilacs can reach a height of 30'. In early summer, they produce spectacular clusters of privet-like blooms. A common variety is the Japanese tree lilac (S. reticulata), which displays huge clusters of cream-colored flowers late in the season.

Other commonly known species include the Peking or Chinese tree lilac (S. pekinensis), an attractive shrub with long, cream-colored, non-fragrant flowers; the nodding lilac
(S. reflexa), so named because its pink flowers hang somewhat limply on the 10–12' bush; and the Preston lilac (S. x prestoniae), a hardy species that results from crossing the nodding lilac and the late lilac.

The Cheyenne lilac (S. x 'Cheyenne') will withstand the extra cold temperatures and severe winters of northern climates. It reaches a height and spread of about 8' and has dense, symmetrical growth. The highly-fragrant flowers are a distinctive and delicate shade of light blue—different from most other lilacs.

When selecting lilacs, keep in mind how you want to use them and choose varieties accordingly. Ask gardening center staff to suggest the best types for your particular needs.

 
                     
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