Syringa

Stockholm-lilac

Lilac Bush

lilac.head.600pix

Lilac buds

Lilac wood lengthwise section

Royal Botanical Gardens Lilac Celebration

Syringa is a genus of flowering woody plants in the Oleaceae family, commonly known as lilacs. The genus comprises about 20 to 25 species, native to the woodland and scrub from southeastern Europe to eastern Asia, and widely and commonly cultivated in temperate areas elsewhere.

The genus is most closely related to Ligustrum (privets), classified in the tribe Oleeae along with Olea (olives) and several other genera. Syringa is notable for its beautiful, fragrant flowers that appear in late spring, usually in panicles of white, pink, or purple. They are popular ornamental plants in gardens and parks, celebrated for their sweet scent and attractive blooms.

Description

Syringa plants are deciduous shrubs or small trees, ranging from 2 to 10 meters tall. The leaves are opposite (rarely in whorls of three), simple, and heart-shaped to lanceolate, varying in size. The flowers are produced in spring, each flower being 5 to 10 mm in diameter with a four-lobed corolla; the flower color varies from white to pink and various shades of violet and purple, often with a pleasant fragrance. The fruit is a dry, brown capsule, splitting in two to release the two-winged seeds.

Species

Among the most well-known species are:

• Syringa vulgaris (common lilac), native to the Balkan Peninsula, where it grows on rocky hills. This species has been widely cultivated and has numerous cultivars.
• Syringa reticulata (Japanese tree lilac), native to eastern Asia, notable for its creamy white flowers.
• Syringa josikaea (Hungarian lilac), native to eastern Europe, known for its late bloom.
• Syringa komarowii and Syringa wolfii, among others, also contribute to the diversity of the genus with their unique characteristics and habitats.

Cultivation and Uses

Lilacs are popular for their fragrant flowers, which are often used in perfumery and for making essential oils. They thrive in well-drained soils, with plenty of sunlight, and are relatively low-maintenance plants. Lilacs can be propagated from cuttings or seeds, but they are most commonly spread by cloning to maintain the characteristics of cultivars.

In addition to their use in gardens and floral arrangements, lilacs have symbolic meanings in various cultures. They are often associated with love, spring, and renewal. The common lilac, Syringa vulgaris, is the state flower of New Hampshire, symbolizing the hardy character of the state's people.

Conservation

While many species of Syringa are common and not considered at risk, habitat destruction and over-collection have led to some species being listed as endangered in their native habitats. Conservation efforts are focused on preserving these species within their natural environments and through cultivation in botanical gardens.

Gallery

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See Also

• Oleaceae
• Ornamental plant
• Perfumery