Syringa x oblata ‘Betsy Ross’ (Lilac)

Noted for its mildew tolerance, Syringa x oblata ‘Betsy Ross’ (Lilac) is a deciduous shrub of compact, rounded habit with large and showy panicles, up to 14 in. long (35 cm), packed with fragrant, pure white flowers in early-mid spring. The open branches are clothed in light green, broadly ovate leaves that remain attractive in summer. This beautiful lilac becomes magical during twilight hours, glowing in the fading light. To extend the season of interest of your lilac, grow clematis with different bloom times through its branches to add color and glamour to the shrub. Works well in a border or as a specimen. One of the best lilacs for warmer climates.

• Grows up to 8-10 ft. tall and wide (240-300 cm).
• A full sun lover, this plant is easily grown in fertile, humus-rich, slightly acidic to slightly alkaline, moist, well-drained soils. Tolerates light shade, but the best flower production occurs 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 spring 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.