Syringa Hyacinthiflora Esther Staley

Description

Syringa Hyacinthiflora Esther Staley is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the olive family. It is a hybrid of Syringa oblata and Syringa vulgaris. The plant is known for its fragrant lavender-pink flowers that bloom in the spring. The flowers grow in clusters of 4-6 inches long and have a sweet scent. The plant is easy to grow and can reach a height of 8-12 feet.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The leaves of Syringa Hyacinthiflora Esther Staley are dark green and heart-shaped. They can grow up to 6 inches long and 4 inches wide. The flowers bloom in the spring and have a lavender-pink color with a sweet scent. The flowers grow in clusters of 4-6 inches long. The plant can reach a height of 8-12 feet and a spread of 6-10 feet. It has a dense, rounded habit and can be pruned to maintain its shape.

Care Guide

Syringa Hyacinthiflora Esther Staley is an easy-to-care-for plant. Here are some tips to help you care for your plant:

• Water: Water regularly during the growing season, making sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering in the winter.
• Fertilization: Fertilize in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
• Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. Use a good-quality potting mix if planting in a container.
• Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to bloom well.
• Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 3-7.

Common Pests & Diseases

Syringa Hyacinthiflora Esther Staley is generally not susceptible to pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues that you may encounter:

• Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes brown spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and apply a fungicide.
• Mildew: This fungal disease causes a white powdery coating on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and apply a fungicide.
• Aphids: These small insects suck the sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing leaves. Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
• Spider mites: These tiny pests spin webs on the plant and cause yellowing leaves. Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Habitat

Syringa Hyacinthiflora Esther Staley is native to Asia and was introduced to the United States in the early 1900s. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. The plant is commonly used in gardens and landscapes as a specimen plant or a hedge.

Question and Answer

• Q: What is the best time to prune Syringa Hyacinthiflora Esther Staley?
• A: Prune the plant immediately after flowering in the spring.
• Q: Can Syringa Hyacinthiflora Esther Staley grow in containers?
• A: Yes, the plant can grow in containers. Use a good-quality potting mix and make sure the container has drainage holes.
• Q: How often should I fertilize Syringa Hyacinthiflora Esther Staley?
• A: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
• Q: Does Syringa Hyacinthiflora Esther Staley attract pollinators?
• A: Yes, the fragrant flowers attract bees and butterflies.

Related Plants

• Syringa oblata
• Syringa vulgaris
• Syringa x hyacinthiflora
• Syringa reticulata
• Syringa patula

References

• Dirr, M. A. (2009). Manual of woody landscape plants: their identification, ornamental characteristics, culture, propagation and uses. Stipes Publishing LLC.
• Gilman, E. F. (1997). Trees for urban and suburban landscapes. Delmar Publishers.
• Missouri Botanical Garden. (2021). Syringa x hyacinthiflora ‘Esther Staley’.