Common Lilac
Common lilac is a large, drought-tolerant shrub. It grows as an upright bush with thick stems and heart-shaped leaves.
In May, it grows very fragrant, purple flowers arranged in a pyramidal cluster. It is a good choice for an informal screen or background plant.
Common Lilac
Common lilac is a large, drought-tolerant shrub. It grows as an upright bush with thick stems and heart-shaped leaves.
In May, it grows very fragrant, purple flowers arranged in a pyramidal cluster. It is a good choice for an informal screen or background plant.
Plant details
Botanic Name
Syringa vulgaris
Pronunciation
si-RING-gah vul-GAIR-iss
Mature Height
10 to 15 ft.
Mature Spread
8 to 12 ft.
Water usage
One Droplet: Water twice per month or less, once established.
Two Droplets: Water about once per week, once established.
Three Droplets: Water about twice per week, once established.
Flower Color
purple
Bloom time
May
Colorado Native
No
Natural Habitat
southern Europe
Light Requirements
sun
Cold Hardiness
USDA zones 3-7
Elevation Limit
hardy to 10,000 ft.
Performance
Common lilac has proven to be a tough, drought-tolerant shrub at the Xeriscape Demonstration Garden. Although the flowers are not as showy as some of the newer lilac cultivars, its long-lived, dependable nature makes it a good choice for low-water landscapes.
Maintenance
Remove flower clusters after they have finished blooming. Prune out dead or damaged branches at any time.