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Description
Syringa Vulgaris Vestale, commonly known as the white lilac, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the olive family, Oleaceae. It is native to southeastern Europe and was introduced to North America in the early 18th century. This shrub typically grows up to 10 feet tall and 6 feet wide. It produces clusters of fragrant, pure white flowers in late spring to early summer that are attractive to bees and butterflies. The foliage of the plant is dark green and heart-shaped, and it turns yellow in the fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Oleaceae |
| Genus | Syringa |
Appearance
Syringa Vulgaris Vestale is a large shrub with an upright, spreading habit. It has smooth, gray-brown bark that becomes fissured with age. The leaves are opposite, ovate, and about 2-5 inches long. They are dark green in color and turn yellow in the fall. The flowers are produced in large, dense panicles that can be up to 8 inches long. They are pure white in color and have a strong, sweet fragrance. The fruit of the plant is a dry, brown capsule that contains small, winged seeds.
Care Guide
Syringa Vulgaris Vestale is a low-maintenance shrub that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:- Water: Water the plant deeply and regularly during the first growing season. After that, the plant is drought-tolerant and can survive with little water.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.- Soil: Syringa Vulgaris Vestale prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in a variety of soil types, but it does not tolerate wet soil.- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun, but it can also grow in partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Syringa Vulgaris Vestale is hardy in USDA zones 3-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Syringa Vulgaris Vestale is generally not susceptible to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by powdery mildew, which is a fungal disease that causes a white powdery coating to appear on the leaves. To prevent powdery mildew, make sure the plant is not overcrowded and has good air circulation. If the disease does occur, treat it with a fungicide.
Habitat
Syringa Vulgaris Vestale is native to southeastern Europe and can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, hillsides, and along streams. In North America, it is commonly grown in gardens and parks as an ornamental shrub.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Syringa Vulgaris Vestale?
A: Water the plant deeply and regularly during the first growing season. After that, the plant is drought-tolerant and can survive with little water.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Syringa Vulgaris Vestale?
A: Syringa Vulgaris Vestale is hardy in USDA zones 3-7.
Q: What is the best time to fertilize Syringa Vulgaris Vestale?
A: Fertilize the plant once a year in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
Q: What is powdery mildew and how can I treat it?
A: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that causes a white powdery coating to appear on the leaves. To prevent powdery mildew, make sure the plant is not overcrowded and has good air circulation. If the disease does occur, treat it with a fungicide.
Related Plants
Here are some other species of Syringa:- Syringa Vulgaris (Common lilac)- Syringa Meyeri (Meyer lilac)- Syringa Patula (Manchurian lilac)
References
– Dirr, Michael A., and Keith S. Warren. The Tree Book: Superior Selections for Landscapes, Streetscapes, and Gardens. Timber Press, 2019.- Gilman, Edward F., and Dennis G. Watson. “Syringa Vulgaris Vestale.” University of Florida, IFAS Extension, 2019.- Huxley, A., ed. The New Royal Horticultural Society Dictionary of Gardening. Macmillan Press, 1992.
