Also known as French Lilac · Garden Lilac · Garden Syringa
Common Lilac (Syringa vulgaris) is a hardy, deciduous shrub known for its intensely fragrant, showy purple or white flowers in late spring. It thrives in full sun and wel
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun (6+ hours direct light daily).
90% intensity
Moderate, consistent moisture during establishment and dry spells.
60% intensity
Well-drained, fertile, neutral to slightly alkaline soil.
50% intensity
Hardy, needs cold dormancy. Tolerates -29°C to 29°C.
70% intensity
Outdoor
50% intensity
Light, balanced fertilizer in early spring if needed.
30% intensity
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Non-toxic to humans and pets.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water newly planted lilacs regularly to establish roots. Mature plants are drought-tolerant but benefit from deep watering during prolonged dry spells, especially when flowering.
Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Ensure the soil drains well to prevent waterlogging.
Prune lilacs immediately after flowering to remove spent blooms and shape the plant. Remove suckers from the base and any dead, damaged, or crossing branches.
For older, overgrown plants, a rejuvenation prune over 2-3 years can restore vigor and flowering.
Lilacs can be propagated by softwood cuttings taken in late spring or early summer. Root cuttings in a moist, well-draining medium with rooting hormone.
They can also be propagated by layering or by dividing suckers that emerge from the base of the plant.
Lilacs are typically grown in the ground and do not require repotting. If grown in a large container, ensure it has excellent drainage.
Repotting would only be necessary if the plant outgrows its container, moving it to a larger pot or into the ground.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Common Lilac (Syringa vulgaris)
Where Common Lilac (Syringa vulgaris) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Oleaceae |
| Genus | Syringa |
| Species | Syringa vulgaris |
Similar in genus Syringa
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
