DESCRIPTION

Katherine Havemeyer- this lilac is a tall, wide-spreading shrub that grows to 3-4 m in height. It has bare, raised, highly branched stems that become woody over time, and is covered with grey or brown bark. It has dark green leaves that are heart-shaped, and 5-12 cm in length. Lilac flowers bloom in May. They are big, full, with many slightly twisted petals that are fused into a tube within the crown, and gathered in large bunches at a length of 30 cm. The flowers are lilac and pink, and intensely fragrant, their scent carries all over the garden.

ADVICES

The shrub is best positioned in a sunny spot, or partial shade. The plant prefers fertile humus soil that is moderately moist. The plant is very tolerant with regard to pH- the soil should be slightly acidic, neutral or slightly alkaline.

Before planting, the root ball should be soaked in water. Fertilize in spring with compost or a multi component mineral fertilizer. After flowering remove dead or damaged flowers to ensure spectacular flowering for the next year. Older plants can be pruned to revitalise. Pruning should be carried out in early spring.