Syringa

New Zealand’s Best Syringa Plants

Growing colourful shrubs in your garden delivers a vast range of benefits:

• They are visual plants that add impact to a space
• They attract birds and bees
• Street appeal can be greatly enhanced
• Children can learn the plants and become more involved with nature
• These plants will bring you pleasure for many years to come

We have the largest variety of French Lilac Plants, and more, and we have the right one for your space. Our amazing plants have been selected to thrive in NZ’s climate. We grow and stock only the highest quality plants, sourcing them locally, and from NZ’s leading nurseries. Each plant is packed and transported with extreme care, ensuring it arrives to you in the same condition it was in when it left the nursery. If you are wanting to buy Syringa, shop with confidence from the best in the industry.

Common questions about growing Syringa

1. What is the difference between lilac and Syringa?

The terms "lilac" and "Syringa" are often used interchangeably, but there is a subtle distinction between the two. Lilac is the common name for a genus of flowering shrubs and small trees in the family Oleaceae. There are about 12 species of lilacs, native to southeastern Europe and eastern Asia. Lilacs are known for their beautiful, fragrant flowers that bloom in spring. Syringa is the scientific name for the genus of lilacs. It is derived from the Greek word "syrinx," which means "pipe." This name is thought to refer to the hollow stems of lilacs.

So, in essence, all lilacs are Syringa, but not all Syringa are lilacs. The term "Syringa" is the more inclusive term, encompassing all species within the genus, while "lilac" is often used to refer to the most common and well-known species, Syringa vulgaris.

2. Do lilacs grow in NZ?

Yes, lilacs can grow in New Zealand. In fact, the New Zealand lilac, or hebe hulkeana, is a native New Zealand shrub that belongs to the same family as lilacs (Oleaceae). It is a small, evergreen shrub with glossy mid-green leaves and a crimson-red serrated margin. In spring, the New Zealand lilac produces long spikes of delicate lilac flowers.

3. Is there a difference between a lilac tree and a lilac bush?

While most lilacs are considered shrubs, there are a few varieties that can grow into small trees with a single trunk. These varieties are often referred to as lilac trees. However, the terms "lilac tree" and "lilac bush" are not always used consistently, and some people may use them interchangeably.

Here's a more detailed breakdown of the differences between lilac trees and lilac bushes:

Lilac Trees:

• Trunk: Lilac trees have a single, woody trunk that grows upright.
• Height: Lilac trees can grow up to 25 feet (7.6 meters) tall.
• Spread: Lilac trees can have a spread of up to 15 feet (4.6 meters).
• Appearance: Lilac trees have a more tree-like appearance, with branches that fan out from the trunk.

Lilac Bushes:

• Stems: Lilac bushes have multiple woody stems that grow from the base of the plant.
• Height: Lilac bushes typically grow to 8-10 feet (2.4-3 meters) tall.
• Spread: Lilac bushes can have a spread of up to 10-12 feet (3-3.7 meters).
• Appearance: Lilac bushes have a more bushy appearance, with branches that grow in all directions.

It's important to note that some lilac bushes can be trained to grow into a tree-like form by pruning out the lower stems and encouraging the growth of a single trunk. This technique is often used to create topiaries or standard lilacs.

4. Which is the most fragrant Syringa?

The most fragrant Syringa is a matter of personal preference, as different people have different scent preferences. However, some of the Syringa varieties that are widely considered to be the most fragrant include:

• Syringa vulgaris 'Monge': This variety has large, double flowers with a strong, sweet fragrance.
• Syringa vulgaris 'Sensation': This variety has deep purple flowers with an intoxicating fragrance.
• Syringa meyeri 'Palibin': This variety is known for its intense fragrance, which has been described as reminiscent of cherry blossoms.
• Syringa hyacinthiflora 'Maiden's Blush': This variety has pale pink flowers with a delicate fragrance.
• Syringa vulgaris 'President Grevy': This variety has large, fragrant blue flowers.

These are just a few of the many fragrant Syringa varieties. With so many options to choose from, there's sure to be a Syringa that will fill your garden or home with its delightful fragrance.

5. Why is lilac called Syringa?

The genus name Syringa is derived from the ancient Greek word "syrinx," which means "pipe" or "tube." This name is thought to refer to the hollow stems of lilacs. Hollow stems are a characteristic feature of the lilac genus. The stems were used to make pan-pipes in ancient Greece and other parts of the world.

The first formal description of the lilac genus was published by Carl Linnaeus in 1753. Linnaeus named the genus Syringa based on the Greek word "syrinx" because of the hollow stems of the plants.

The common name "lilac" is thought to have originated from the Persian word "lilak," which means "flower." The Persian word "lilak" may have been adopted into the English language through the trade of silk and other goods between Persia and England in the Middle Ages. The name "lilac" is now used to refer to all species in the genus Syringa, as well as to the genus itself. The name is often used interchangeably with the scientific name "Syringa."

So, the next time you see a lilac, take a moment to appreciate its beautiful flowers and its interesting name. The name "Syringa" is a reminder of the plant's hollow stems, and the common name "lilac" is a reminder of its long history and its connection to the Middle East.

6. Are lilacs poisonous to humans?

The flowers, leaves, and roots of Syringa vulgaris, the most common lilac species, are not poisonous to humans. However, they may cause mild stomach upset if ingested in large quantities.

The toxicity of other lilac species is not well documented. However, it is generally considered to be safe to handle and care for lilacs. If you are concerned about the toxicity of a particular lilac species, it is best to err on the side of caution and avoid contact with the plant.

7. What are some fun facts about Syringa?

Some fun facts about Syringa, also known as lilacs:

• Lilacs are native to southeastern Europe and eastern Asia. There are about 25 species of lilacs, and they can grow as shrubs or small trees.
• Lilacs are known for their beautiful, fragrant flowers. The flowers come in a variety of colors, including purple, white, pink, and blue. Lilacs bloom in the spring, and their fragrance is often described as sweet and intoxicating.
• Lilacs have been cultivated for centuries. The first written record of lilacs dates back to the 16th century, and they have been popular garden plants ever since.
• Lilacs have a long history of symbolism. In many cultures, lilacs are associated with love, beauty, and springtime. They are also sometimes used to represent rebirth and new beginnings.
• Lilacs are used in a variety of products. Lilac flowers are used to make perfume, potpourri, and soap. Lilac leaves are also used in herbal medicine.
• Lilacs are the state flower of New Hampshire. The lilac was chosen as the state flower in 1945 because it is a common and well-loved flower in New Hampshire.
• Lilacs are a popular subject of art and literature. Lilacs have been painted and written about by artists and poets for centuries.

8. How big is a Syringa sensation?

Syringa Sensation is a compact variety of lilac, typically growing to a height of 6-8 feet (1.8-2.4 meters) and a spread of 6-10 feet (1.8-3 meters). It has a dense, bushy habit with heart-shaped leaves that are dark green in colour. The flowers are deep purple to violet with a white margin, and they are very fragrant. Syringa Sensation blooms in mid-spring, and it is a popular choice for planting in borders, foundations, and containers.

9. What colors are Syringa?

The genus Syringa encompasses a range of species, each with its own unique flower colour. Here's a summary of the colors found within the Syringa genus:

1. Purple: This is the most common color for Syringa flowers, ranging from light lavender to deep violet. Examples include Syringa vulgaris (Common Lilac) and Syringa hyacinthiflora (Hyacinth Lilac).
2. White: White-flowered lilacs are also quite popular, offering a clean and elegant appearance. Examples include Syringa alba (White Lilac) and Syringa meyeri 'Palibin'.
3. Pink: Pink Syringa varieties offer a range of soft and delicate hues, from pale pink to rose-pink. Examples include Syringa vulgaris 'Katherine Havemeyer' and Syringa meyeri 'Rosebud'.
4. Blue: While not as common as other colors, blue-flowered lilacs are still prized for their unique charm. Examples include Syringa vulgaris 'President Grevy' and Syringa vulgaris 'Blue Moon'.
5. Bicolour: Some Syringa varieties feature a combination of colors, such as white with purple margins or pink with white stripes. Examples include Syringa vulgaris 'Sensation' and Syringa vulgaris 'Monge'.
6. Variegated: Variegated Syringa varieties have leaves with patches of white, pink, or cream, adding an extra layer of interest to the plant. Examples include Syringa vulgaris 'Albo Variegata' and Syringa vulgaris 'Tricolour'.

The diversity of colors within the Syringa genus allows for a wide range of choices to suit different preferences and garden styles. Whether you prefer the classic elegance of white lilacs or the vibrant charm of purple blooms, there's a Syringa variety to bring beauty and fragrance to your garden.