Syringa 'RED PIXIE' dwarf lilac

Red Pixie lilac dates back to mid 20th century when Max Peterson of Ogallala Lilacs in Meadowlark Hill, Nebraska (USA) found a uniquely looking plant among other lilacs. He assumed it was a natural hybrid between two lilac species growing close to each other: Syringa pubescens subsp. julianae ‘Hers’ a Syringa meyeri var. meyeri. He watched it grow for a few years onward and was sure that the plant had features not known to any other lilac introduced before so he decided to give its new name Red Pixie. No wonder it became popular all around the world, not just for its beauty but also thanks to its health and hardiness.

Red Pixie is a dwarf lilac growing not more than 2m tall and a little less wide. In May it makes erect, raceme-like panicles of purple-pink buds that open into slim, trumpet-shaped, light pink flowers. The leaves are broadly elliptic to almost rounded but always with a conspicuous tip. They emerge soft green and mature rich to dark green and glossy. Flowering ends in June but often repeats in late summer.

This lilac needs no pruning. Only young plants may be pruned immediately after flowering to achieve a dense framework of bottom branches. Lilacs in general can be grown in many soil types. For best result use reasonably fertile, moist but well-drained soil, preferably neutral or alkaline. Grow them in full sun for profuse flowering and good habit. Fully hardy to -40°C (USDA zone 3).

Last update 10-02-2013; 13-01-2016