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Description
Syringa vulgaris Beauty of Moscow, commonly known as Lilac, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the olive family. It is a popular garden plant because of its beautiful and fragrant flowers. The plant is native to Eastern Europe and Asia and is widely cultivated for its ornamental value.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Oleaceae |
| Genus | Syringa |
Appearance
Syringa vulgaris Beauty of Moscow grows up to 10 feet tall and 6 feet wide. It has dark green leaves that are heart-shaped and about 2-5 inches long. The flowers of the plant are fragrant and bloom in late spring to early summer. They are double, pure white, and have a light pink tinge. The flowers are arranged in large panicles that are up to 8 inches long.
Care Guide
For Syringa vulgaris Beauty of Moscow to thrive, it needs regular care and maintenance. Here’s a brief guide on how to take care of this plant:
- Water: Lilacs need regular watering, especially during the growing season. Water the plant deeply once a week.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Repeat the process after the flowers have faded.
- Soil: Lilacs prefer well-drained, slightly alkaline soil. Amend the soil with compost before planting.
- Sunlight: Lilacs need full sun to bloom properly. Plant them in a spot that gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight.
- Hardiness Zones: Syringa vulgaris Beauty of Moscow is hardy in USDA zones 3-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Syringa vulgaris Beauty of Moscow is prone to some pests and diseases, including:
- Lilac Borer
- Lilac Leaf Miner
- Lilac Blight
- Lilac Wilt
To prevent these problems, keep the plant healthy, prune regularly, and remove any affected parts immediately.
Habitat
Syringa vulgaris Beauty of Moscow is native to Eastern Europe and Asia, where it grows in open woods, scrub, and rocky hillsides. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I grow Syringa vulgaris Beauty of Moscow in a container?
A: Yes, it’s possible to grow Lilacs in containers, but they prefer to grow in the ground.
Q: How often should I prune my Syringa vulgaris Beauty of Moscow?
A: Prune the plant once a year after flowering. Remove any dead or diseased wood.
Q: How long do the flowers of Syringa vulgaris Beauty of Moscow last?
A: The flowers of the plant last for about two weeks.
Q: How do I propagate Syringa vulgaris Beauty of Moscow?
A: Lilacs can be propagated by cuttings or layering in early summer.
Related Plants
- Syringa vulgaris Sensation
- Syringa vulgaris Charles Joly
- Syringa vulgaris President Grevy
- Syringa vulgaris Madame Lemoine
References
- “Syringa vulgaris Beauty of Moscow.” Missouri Botanical Garden, 2021, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c655.
- “Lilacs.” The Old Farmer’s Almanac, 2021, www.almanac.com/plant/lilacs.
- “How to Grow and Care for Lilacs.” Gardener’s Supply Company, 2021, www.gardeners.com/how-to/lilacs/5063.html.
