Syringa hyacinthiflora is a type of early flowering lilac that was bred by crossing two other lilac cultivars. It is a desirable ornamental garden plant because it produces bountiful clusters of fragrant, single-flower lilac blossoms. It grows well in the southern U.S. because it has a low chill requirement for blooming.
I. Appearance and Characteristics
Syringa x hyacinthiflora, commonly known as early flowering lilac or hyacinth lilac, is a hybrid of two species of Lilac (Syringa oblata and Syringa vulgaris), both native to Eastern Europe and Asia.
The hyacinth lilac is a medium-sized shrub that typically grows between 8 to 12 feet (2.4-3.6 meters) tall and wide, making it a substantial presence in the garden.
The plant’s leaves are heart-shaped and dark green, providing a lovely contrast to the bright flowers. The foliage often turns shades of red, purple, and gold in fall, adding another level of interest to the plant. As an added bonus, the foliage is highly resistant to powdery mildew that can plague other lilac varieties.
The plant’s showy flowers are its most remarkable feature. They are incredibly fragrant and bloom in large clusters that can reach up to 8 inches (20 cm) in length. The flowers can be single or double and are available in a wide range of colors, including purple, violet, white, or pink. The hyacinth lilac is one of the earliest blooming lilacs, often starting in mid-spring, about 7-10 days earlier than common lilacs.
Like other lilacs, the hyacinth lilac is not typically considered toxic to humans or pets, but ingestion can cause mild stomach upset.
It’s quite hardy, generally thriving in USDA zones 3-7. Most hyacinth lilacs are not suited to the heat of the south. They need a long period of winter chill for buds to mature and bloom the following spring. The recommended growing areas are zones 3 to 7. However, several Hyacinthiflora lilac cultivars with low-chill requirements have been bred for warmer zones, such as ‘Lavender Lady’, ‘California Rose’, ‘Excel’, and ‘Esther Staley’.
II. How to Grow and Care
Sunlight and Soil
Select a location that receives full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily), as lilacs bloom best in sunny spots. Light shade is tolerated, but the best flower production occurs in full sun. The soil should be fertile, humus-rich, alkaline to neutral, and well-draining. Lilacs do not tolerate waterlogged conditions. They thrive in chalk but dislike acidic soils.
Watering
Water the plant thoroughly after planting, and continue to provide regular water until the plant is well established. Afterward, lilacs can tolerate brief periods of drought but prefer consistent moisture.
Fertilizing
In general, lilacs do not require much fertilization. However, if your soil is poor, a balanced slow-release fertilizer can be applied in early spring.
Planting Instructions
Dig a hole twice as wide and just as deep as the root ball of your lilac. Place the plant in the hole, ensuring that the top of the root ball is level with the ground surface. Backfill the hole with soil, pressing firmly to remove any air pockets.
Pruning
Pruning should be done in late spring, immediately after the lilac finishes blooming. This is because lilacs bloom on old wood, meaning the buds for next year’s flowers are formed on the current year’s growth. If you prune in late summer, fall, or winter, you will be removing next year’s blooms.
Winter Care
Although hardy, young lilac shrubs may benefit from a layer of mulch applied around their base to protect the roots from winter cold.
Pests and Diseases
Monitor the plant for pests like aphids and diseases like powdery mildew. Using a well-balanced planting approach with good plant hygiene can prevent many issues.
III. Uses and Benefits
The Early Flowering Lilac, with its rich fragrance and beautiful clusters of flowers, serves as a remarkable centerpiece in any garden. The plant’s size and striking blooms make it a natural focal point, while its early blooming period helps kick off the spring garden season with a burst of color and scent.
- Use the Early Flowering Lilac as the anchor of a border garden, surrounded by smaller perennials that will complement its vibrant flowers and lush foliage. Pair it with late-spring or summer-blooming plants such as roses, peonies, or daylilies, to ensure that your garden enjoys a progression of blooms throughout the seasons.
- Consider adding some bulbs like daffodils or tulips at the base of your lilac. They will bloom in concert with the lilac, creating an appealing layered look and extending the bloom season.
- The shrub’s dark green foliage, which turns yellow in the fall, allows for a great backdrop to highlight autumn-flowering plants like sedum or aster.
- Incorporate a variety of textures into your design for added interest. Consider adding plants with fine foliage, like ornamental grasses or ferns, which can help highlight the lilac’s broader, heart-shaped leaves.
- Remember, this plant attracts pollinators, so it could be a central part of a butterfly or bee garden, surrounded by other pollinator-friendly plants like lavender, salvia, or coneflowers.
Lastly, consider your lilac’s needs when planning your garden design. Early Flowering Lilacs prefer full sun and well-drained soil, so be sure to choose a location and companion plants that share these requirements. With thoughtful planning, your Early Flowering Lilac can truly shine in your garden design.
