Hairy Lilac
syringa pubescens
Also known as: ["Hairy Lilac","Pubescent Lilac"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub native to Asia, known for its fragrant flowers and hairy stems.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Oleaceae |
| Genus: | Syringa |
| Botanical Name: | Syringa pubescens |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a location with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–25–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–7"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually, immediately after flowering to avoid cutting off next year's buds.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily) is ideal, though partial shade is tolerated, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun to prevent scorching. In hot climates, provide afternoon shade. Indoors, place near a south-facing window with unobstructed light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct midday sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, and avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Test soil pH annually; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure consistent moisture retention.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates cold down to -20°F (-29°C) but thrives in cooler climates.
Protect from frost; water early to avoid heat stress; adjust care for seasonal shifts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Avoid fertilizing in late autumn or winter; water thoroughly before and after feeding; use a balanced NPK ratio.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings taken in early summer are most successful.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Early summer when new growth is firm but not woody.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–75°F or 18–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; plants may take a full season to establish.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, misting spray bottle, propagation tray.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; maintain consistent moisture; avoid direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above outward-facing buds; thin out crowded branches to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to shape the plant, remove dead or weak growth, and encourage flowering. Focus on removing old wood to stimulate new blooms.
Tools
Hand pruners, loppers, pruning saw (for larger branches), disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune after flowering; remove dead/diseased wood; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; replace with fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Young plants may need repotting annually.
Checklist
Choose new pot; prepare fresh soil; inspect roots; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry before nightfall. Ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once per week during active growth; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf scorch in excessive heat; stunted growth or bud drop in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf drop or dieback, especially if roots are not protected.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base to insulate roots; protect from harsh winds; avoid overwatering in cold weather.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Choose appropriate fertilizer; apply at correct time; follow dilution rates; avoid contact with stems.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring before new growth emerges. Apply again after the first flush of flowers. Dilute liquid fertilizers to half-strength if used monthly during growing season.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSyringa pubescens is non-toxic to cats. There are no documented toxic effects or harmful compounds present in the plant that would affect felines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicSyringa pubescens is not toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain any known substances that would cause adverse effects in canines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicSyringa pubescens is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no known toxic compounds or physiological effects associated with ingestion or contact.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Syringa pubescens toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water Syringa pubescens?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Syringa pubescens attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its fragrant flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Oleaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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