Syringa pekinensis 'YELLOW FRAGRANCE' Peking lilac, Chinese tree lilac

Peking lilac, also called Chinese tree lilac, is a small, usually multistemmed tree from North China. It is supposed to be a subspecies of Japanese form syringa reticulata. It is cultivated for showy flowers and handsome foliage.

Flowers appear in June and are composed in about 15 cm long panicles which are upright or slightly horizontal with upright tips. Yellow Fragrance is a variety which differs from the species by having richer creamy white to pale yellow flowers with a more pleasant scent. Seeds are produced in loose clusters of capsules that turn woody brown in early autumn, and become dry and unsightly which is why the tree is commonly pruned after flowering.

Deciduous leaves are broadly ovate, acuminate, dark green, and partially glossy. They are drooping on the branches and look a make the impression of a Japanese dogwood tree. Peking lilac does not grow too fast and has time to form a nice, broadly oval crown.

Lilacs can be grown in many soil types. For best result use reasonably fertile, moist but well-drained soil. It is tolerant of urban pollution and pest and disease free. Full sun is crucial for profuse flowering. As it flowers on previous year's wood any pruning should be done immediately after flowering. It is very hardy to about -40°C (USDA zone 3).

Last update 22-01-2019