Syringa x hyacinthiflora ‘Royal Purple’ (Early Flowering Lilac)

Syringa x hyacinthiflora ‘Royal Purple’ (Early Flowering Lilac) is an upright-rounded, deciduous shrub with showy panicles packed with wonderfully fragrant, dark purple, double flowers. Blooming in mid-spring, about 7-10 days earlier than common lilacs, the abundant blossoms make a dramatic display. The erect, open branches are clothed in green, heart-shaped leaves that remain attractive in summer, and turn an outstanding deep purple in the fall. Introduced in 1966, Royal Purple Lilac is sure to please as an accent, or background plant and can be used as an informal hedge or screen.

• 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, alkaline to neutral, dry to medium, well-drained soils. Thrives in chalk but dislikes acidic 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 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 in summer.
• No routine pruning necessary. Remove diseased, damaged, congested or crossing shoots in late winter or early spring.