A sure sign that the warm days of spring are upon us is the bloom of the Lilac tree (Syringa species). Its colorful cluster of flowers and magnificent fragrance makes it a favorite shrub among gardeners, tree service experts and even non-gardeners. There are over 20 species (1000 varieties) of lilacs with blossoms of pink, purple or white. For almost two weeks, primarily during May, we are graced with their beauty and welcoming fragrance. After the blooms are gone, the green, heart shaped leaves continue to add depth and character to the landscape. You can extend the display of lilac tree flowers for as much as six weeks, by planting different varieties.

Tree Service for Lilac Tree Varieties

Most lilacs are hardy, medium to large shrubs which are easy to grow and can last for hundreds of years. They prefer direct sunlight and neutral soil with good drainage. Here are some of our tree service specialist's favorites:

A long time beloved classic is the common lilac (Syringa vulgaris). It ranges in height from 7' to 15' with a spread of leggy branches 6' to 12' forming an asymmetrical crown. Flowers are purple to white and very fragrant. It works well in a shrub border or as a screening plant.

An attractive smaller (4'-8' high/5'-10' spread) and dense variety, cultivated since time immemorial, is the Persian Lilac (Syringa x persica). Its elegant arching branches have abundant panicles of lavender flowers, making it a lovely addition to a small garden or border.

If you are looking for a unique and dramatic lilac, consider the ‘Sensation lilac’ (a/k/a French lilac) (Syringa vulgaris), ranging 10' high by 6' wide. Blooms are deep purple with a bright white edging. They produce a wonderful perfume and a spectacular display.

‘Miss Kim’ lilac (Syringa patula) is a hardy compact shrub (5'x 5') from Korea whose purple buds turn into lavender blooms when most other varieties have ended. Miss Kim adds exceptional deep red fall color to the landscape.

Japanese tree lilac (Syringa reticulata) is a very interesting small ornamental tree with rich white showy flowers in the spring and tan attractive fruit in the fall and winter. It also has a distinctive dark bark with white lenticels.

Powdery mildew is the most common tree disease to inflict lilacs. Other pests that you should ask your tree service expert about include lilac borer, lilac leafminer and scale.

The best tip for maintaining lilacs is to prune them after flowering as next year’s flowers are produced in the summer. Older, leggy stalks can be cut to the bottom of the plant, while younger shoots should be cut back by approximately half to where the branches are joined together.
When selecting a lilac consider size, form, color and location to best enjoy their beauty and scent.