All About Common Lilac:
Scientific Nomenclature: Syringa vulgaris
Common Names: common lilac, English lilac, French lilac
Mature Height: 8–16 feet
Mature Spread: 6–12 feet
Growth Rate: Moderate
Attracts Wildlife: Pollinators and hummingbirds
Messiness: Highly fragrant flowers will bloom in the spring and drop shortly after.
Shape: Multi-stemmed/Vase
Native to Kentucky: No
Preferred Soils: Prefers moist, neutral (6.0–8.0pH) or alkaline (>8.0pH) loam or clay soils with good drainage and high organic matter content. It does not tolerate highly acidic or poorly drained soils.
Screening: Can be planted and used as a small privacy/border hedge.
Drought Tolerance: Is not tolerant of drought.
Coniferous or Deciduous: Deciduous
Pruning: Should be pruned regularly to maintain its appearance and form. Spreads rapidly through suckering.
Climate Quick Facts:
Following being planted as a sapling, over 20 years one common lilac will:
- Sequester ~1,268 pounds of CO2.
- Reduce stormwater runoff by 333 gallons.