Downy Lilac Syringa pubescens subsp. patula

Downy lilac is a deciduous perennial shrub in the olive family (Oleaceae). It is native to NE. China to Korea. The species epithet is Latin for “hairy or pubescent,” while the subspecific epithet means “having a spreading habit.” Both describe the hairs on the upper and especially lower surfaces of the leaves.

It will tolerate some shade but produces more flowers when grown in full sun and prefers neutral to slightly alkaline soil (pH near 7.0), that is reasonably fertile, well-drained and never becomes water-logged. Although it has more powdery mildew resistance than other lilacs, it does best in areas with good air circulation.

The leaves of downy lilac are dark green, but in the fall, they turn a burgundy red. This lilac has lavender to ice blue, sweetly fragrant, single flowers that are arranged in dense, terminal clusters (panicles to 3 inches long). The flowers are showy, fragrant and make an excellent cut flower.  It blooms in late spring to early summer, with a spicier scent than common lilac (Syringa vulgaris). Prune immediately after flowering as it flowers on old wood. This shrub may be propagated by softwood cuttings, grafting or chip budding.

‘Miss Kim’ is probably the best-known cultivar of this subspecies. This cultivar was discovered by Elwyn M. Meader in 1947 and released by the New Hampshire Agricultural Experiment Station in 1954. ‘Miss Kim’ measures 4 to 9 feet at maturity. Its flowers appear initially as purple buds and then become dense paired terminal clusters of lavender tubular-shaped blossoms. The Royal Horticultural Society has honored this shrub with the prestigious Award of Garden Merit. It has been recognized for its landscape appeal, hardiness and pest resistance. 

This compact shrub has three seasons of interest and would be a good selection for small landscape areas. It may be used as a specimen, mixed border, hedge, or group plantings. Its showy fragrant blooms in spring and attractive fall foliage will be an added attraction in your landscape. 

Quick ID Hints:

• more compact than Common Lilac
• dense clusters of fragrant and showy lavender tubular-shaped blooms in the spring
• dark green elliptical leaves that turn burgundy red in the fall

Diseases, Pest, and Other Problems:  This shrub has no serious insect or disease problems. It has excellent resistance to powdery mildew. Possible diseases may include lilac blight and honey fungus. Insects that may be problematic include leaf-mining moth, thrips, and willow scale.