How to identify Late Lilac (Syringa villosa)

How to identify Late Lilac (Syringa villosa)

Late Lilac presents as a robust, rounded shrub with a dense formation of erect to slanting branches that exhibit a sturdy quality. The foliage thrives in a well-aerated environment, with a preference for fertile, moderately damp, somewhat acidic soil that assures adequate water movement. Having a lessened tolerance for aridity compared to its relatives, late Lilac flourishes in soil with a pH ranging from 5.5 to 8.0 and demands consistent moisture, yet does not withstand prolonged periods of water saturation or arid, infertile soils.

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type: Shrub

Leaf Type: Deciduous

Quickly Identify Late Lilac

Rosy lilac to white flowers in dense pyramidal panicles (4-8 inches / 10-20 cm long).

Dark green leaves (2-7 inches / 5-18 cm long) with impressed veins and pubescent texture.

Small brown capsules (0.5-1 inch / 1.27-2.54 cm) on branch ends, splitting to release winged seeds.

Sturdy trunk transitioning from smooth to scaly bark, exhibiting lenticels for gas exchange.

Preference for fertile, moderately damp, somewhat acidic soil with a pH of 5.5-8.0.

Detailed Traits of Late Lilac

Leaf Features

The leaves of late Lilac are dull, dark green in color, measuring between 2-7 inches (5-18 cm) in length. They exhibit a somewhat pubescent texture, especially near the midrib, though in rare cases they can be glabrous. The veins are notably impressed, giving the leaves a distinct textured appearance.

Leaf Shape

Ovate ,

Obovate ,

Elliptic ,

Circular

Leaf Base

Circular

Leaf Arrangement

Alternate ,

Opposite ,

Whorled

Leaf Apex

Acuminate ,

Caudiform

Leaf Texture

Papyraceous ,

Coriaceous

Leaf Margin

Revolute

Learn About the Leaf Glossary

Flower Features

The flowers of late Lilac are rosy lilac to white, forming dense pyramidal panicles measuring 4-8 inches (10-20 cm) in length on the current season's growth. Each flower features a tubular base leading to four delicate, spreading petals. Known for their appealing fragrance, the blooms emerge in late spring to early summer, making them a highlight in gardens and landscapes. The flower clusters are highly compact, enhancing their ornamental appeal.

Learn About the Flower Glossary

Fruit Features

The fruit of late Lilac consists of small, elongated brown capsules, prominently positioned at the ends of branches. Each capsule, often measuring about 0.5 to 1 inch (1.27 to 2.54 cm) in length, bears a slightly rough texture. Upon maturity, these capsules split open to release winged seeds entrusted with the propagation of the species. The capsules are typically arranged in clusters, which can help with visual identification during the late season when they are most abundant and visible against the foliage.

Learn About the Fruit Glossary

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