Syringa - Lilac Trees

Syringa trees, also known as lilac trees, are a small genus of truly outstanding trees which are from the Olaeceae family. These trees are native to Europe and East Asia, and they are known for their stunning displays of tubular flowers. Many varieties of the flowers are lilac in colour, hence the common name, but some are pink and even white. The flowers have a delightfully strong fragrance which makes this tree the perfect choice for the sensory garden. The flowers hang in large panicles and usually appear in late spring or early summer and they are popular with both bees and butterflies alike.

In terms of uses, lilac trees are only grown for their ornamental value as the wood is too close-grained to use in production. These trees are popular parkland trees and they are often showcased in horticultural shows – they even have dedicated annual lilac festivals in Michigan and Massachusetts, USA. For the everyday gardener however, these trees are planted for their beauty. Lilacs generally remain quite compact and are therefore well-suited to the smaller garden, and they add a guaranteed dose of colour year-in, year-out. If planted in groups or rows, these trees can make a good border as the luscious green leaves will make the perfect foil for other flowering varieties.