Syringa x laciniata (Cutleaf Lilac)

Noted for its heat tolerance and mildew resistance, Syringa x laciniata (Cutleaf Lilac) is a deciduous shrub of graceful, rounded habit, with loose panicles, 3 in. long (7 cm), of fragrant, soft lavender-violet flowers in late spring. Born all along the willowy, arched branchlets, they form long flowering wands of great beauty. Equally handsome is the airy, finely textured foliage of lacy, deeply cut, dark green leaves. Not susceptible to mildew, it remains attractive in summer and turns yellow-green in the fall. Cutleaf Lilac produces reasonable flowers in partial shade and is the most heat-tolerant lilac. Perfect for warmer climates and hot summer areas. An outstanding lilac that is worthy of a place in the garden.

• Grows up to 6-8 ft. tall and wide (180-240 cm).
• A full sun lover, this plant is easily grown in fertile, humus-rich, alkaline to neutral, dry to medium, well-drained soils. Tolerates light shade, but the best flower production occurs in full sun. Appreciates mulching when planted in full sun. Needs good air circulation.
• No serious insect or disease problems. May get leaf-mining moths, thrips, or be affected by lilac blight
• Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds but is deer resistant.
• Plant as a specimen or massed in mixed shrub borders for dramatic blooms. Use it in the perennial border to add structure to a bed. A great flowering shrub that is perfect for flowering hedges or foundation plantings.
• Propagate by softwood cuttings or layering in early summer. Grafting can be done in winter and chip budding in summer.
• Prune immediately after flowering. Prompt removal of faded flowers before seed set will increase the bloom production in the following year. Promptly remove root suckers to maintain a neat appearance and prevent unwanted colonial spread.
• Native to Turkestan, China.