Syringa pubescens subsp. microphylla ‘Superba’ (Littleleaf Lilac)

Award-winner Syringa pubescens subsp. microphylla ‘Superba’ (Littleleaf Lilac) is a bushy, spreading deciduous shrub adorned with loose panicles of fragrant, single, long-tubed, rosy-pink flowers. Blooming in late spring to early summer, this pretty lilac often repeats bloom in summer or early fall. The dense, fine branches are clothed in small, dark green, broadly-ovate leaves that remain attractive in summer. Introduced in 1933, this Littleleaf Lilac enjoys a good resistance to powdery mildew and is considered heat tolerant. One of the most desirable small scented shrubs, it is perfect for sunny mixed borders and flowering hedges.

• Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society.
• Grows up to 5-7 ft. tall (150-210 cm) and 10-15 ft. wide (300-450 cm).
• A full sun lover, this plant is best grown in average, medium moisture, alkaline to neutral soils, and well-drained soils. Tolerates light shade, but best flower quality and disease resistance occur in full sun. Thrives in chalky ground and appreciates mulching when planted in full sun. Foliage needs good air circulation.
• No serious insect or disease problems. May get leaf-mining moths, and 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.