Common Lilac

Common Lilac Shrub

The common lilac shrub shows that spring is coming as its radiant purple/lavender flowers bloom and spread their fragrance. In fact, these shrubs are not only beautiful, but they are also easy to manage and very hardy (hardy to zones 3-7). Moreover you can use the lilac bush to attract wildlife, such as butterflies, and also as natural hedges, windbreaks, and screens. 

The common lilac is native to the Balkan Penninsula and has been cultivated since 1563. Moreover the name has roots from Arabic (layak) and Persian (nilak, meaning blue). ​​The bush signifies different things for different cultures. For many, lilacs signify spring and renewal since they bloom early. Whereas the Celtics saw the lilac as magical, Russians held a lilac over a newborn baby to bring wisdom.

Growing Characteristics

• Uses: The lilac shrub is a beautiful shrub that can be used for informal hedges, shrub borders, windbreaks, and screen. Their size makes them easy to manage for a backyard garden.
• Size: It’s size at maturity is 8′ – 15′  with a spread of 6′ – 12′
• Color: Lilacs produce beautiful light purple or lavender flowers which are conical in shape. 
• Hardiness Zones: 3 – 7
• Pests and Diseases
  • Some of the pest and diseases include lilacs are susceptible to include
    • Aphids 
    • Citrus nematode 
    • Lilac borer 
    • Voles
    • Bacterial blight or canker 
• Bloom period: They bloom from April – May.
• Pollination: Lilacs can be both self-pollinated and also cross pollinated when another bush is closeby. In fact they have both ​ male and female flowers.
• Cultivation: Lilacs grow in full/partial sun and can also grow in acidic, alkaline, moist, sandy, and well-drained soils. Additionally pruning lilacs, especially the overgrows stems will keep the size manageable and also improve air circulation. 
• Wildlife Value: Lilacs not only attract beautiful butterflies, but they also offer cover for birds and butterflies.