Syringa x chinensis 'SAUGEANA' Rouen lilac, Chinese lilac
size/type
taller shrub,taller shrub
usual height
2-3m
usual width
2-3m
leaves
deciduous broadleaf
colour of leaves
flowers
showy
colour of flowers
blooming time
May-June
location
full sun
USDA zone (lowest)
3 (down to -40°C)
winter protection
for zone 5+6
for zone 7
categorized
Rouen lilac is a unique hybrid between s.persica and s.vulgaris. It was first found in Rouen, France, in 1777 hence its preferred English name, as opposed to its other name Chinese lilac which is confusing since this plant or either of its parents has nothing to do with China. It was a controlled cross, not a natural mutation, and the result boasts with massive flowering and airy habit.
Description of the plant:
Saugeana is a Rouen lilac variety producing rich lilac red to pale purple violet flowers from mid May, usually filling the gap between common lilac and Preston lilac. Individual flowers are tubular, composed in erect panicles, and bear an exquisite, sweet and spicy, strong fragrance. Deciduous leaves are short, only about 4 cm long, mid green, narrowly ovate. Saugeana forms wide, erect shrubs with slender, slightly arching branches in full bloom. They can be pruned immediately after flowering which will result in stronger, upright branches that will hold larger inflorescence the following year without arching. It is one of the fastest growing lilacs so you can prune in almost any manner you like. Use it as a large flowering specimen plant, or as a screening shrub in green hedges. Thanks to delicate foliage it looks airy compared to common lilacs.
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. It is very hardy to -40°C (USDA zone 3), and suitable for large outdoor pots.
Last update 21-03-2018
