Dense clusters of wonderfully scented, double, lavender blue flowers from purple buds in May and June and heart-shaped, mid-green leaves. This pretty, spreading lilac makes an excellent backdrop for a sunny, mixed or shrub border. Mulch each year in early spring and avoid pruning young plants, except to remove unproductive or diseased wood.
How to care for Syringa vulgaris Katherine Havemeyer:
In mid-summer remove the faded flower heads carefully using secateurs to avoid damaging the young shoots. Apply a generous 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted garden compost or manure around the base of the plant in early spring.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
4m
Eventual spread:
4m
Position:
Full sun / light shade
Rate of growth:
Fast-growing
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil, or peat-free general purpose compost
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This shrub is deciduous so it will lose all its leaves in autumn, then fresh new foliage appears again each spring.