This suckering shrub to small tree has multiple greyish stems with upright arching branches that form a dense rounded crown. It has light green heart-shaped leaves and the fragrant lilac tube-shaped flowers appear in conical clusters from mid to late spring. 

Hardiness zones 5 to 9 

Syringa vulgaris is naturally found in south-eastern Europe, preferring a well-drained, moist rich soil that are neutral to alkaline and grows in a protected sunny position and is drought tender but frost tolerant.

Common Lilac is a large shrub that is grown for its fragrant flowers and bushy habit. It is planted in parks and gardens as a specimen or along borders. It is used for screening, fragrant gardens or for summer shade against a wall and establishes in 2 to 4 years. It is moderately deer resistant. The addition of lime to acidic soils is advisable to increase flower production and the plant is suitable for coastal or inland regions. ID 1710

Syringa (si-RING-ga) vulgaris (vul-GAY-ris)

Oleaceae (oh-lee-AY-see-ee)
American Hog Plum, African Walnut Family