Persian Lilac

syringa persica

Also known as: ["Persian Lilac","Fernleaf Lilac"]

Family: Oleaceae Genus: Syringa Category: Flowers

Overview

A deciduous shrub native to Iran, known for its delicate, fern-like foliage and fragrant, pale lilac flowers.

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 persica

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a location with good air circulation
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Fragrance Lovers Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–10–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining loamy soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering; light pruning can be done in late winter.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) in spring and summer; partial shade during intense summer heat.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves with brown tips indicate overwatering; stunted growth may signal poor soil or nutrient deficiency.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Morning sun is ideal; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer; rotate plant for even growth.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.

Soil

well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).

Ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter; avoid heavy clay soils.

Temperature

Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoids frost.

Protect from frost; provide shade in summer; maintain moderate temperatures for optimal growth.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer

Fertilize in spring before flowering; dilute liquid fertilizer to half strength; stop fertilizing in fall.

Propagation

Methods

Softwood cuttings in early summer; layering can also be effective.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Maintain humidity.

Best Time: Early summer when new growth is firm but not woody.

Environment

High humidity (70–80%), indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–70°F).

Medium

Peat and perlite mix or cactus mix with added sand.

Hormone

Rooting hormone is recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots in 4–6 weeks; establish in new pot within 3–4 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, peat-perlite mix, plastic bag or propagator.

Quick Tips

Use clean tools; keep cuttings moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Cut back to a healthy bud or branch; thin out crowded areas.

Pruning Plan

Shape the plant; encourage flowering; remove dead or weak growth.

Tools

Pruning shears, loppers, gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune after flowering; remove dead wood; shape the plant.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before new growth begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.

Method

Use fresh potting mix; ensure good drainage; trim roots if severely pot-bound.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary for container-grown plants.

Checklist

Choose new pot; prepare fresh soil; gently remove plant; prune roots if needed; repot and water.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid overhead watering.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a soaker hose to deliver water directly to the roots, reducing waste and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add compost or well-rotted manure; mix in perlite or sand for drainage.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Leaf scorch in excessive heat; leaf drop or buds failing to open in cold stress.

Cold Stress

Slows growth; may cause leaf drop; buds may not develop properly.

Solution: Provide winter protection; move container plants indoors; use frost cloth for outdoor plants.

Hot Stress

Leaves may wilt or scorch; flowers may fade quickly.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid late-season feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid over-fertilizing, especially in late summer.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Syringa persica may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting the plant's photosynthetic efficiency and overall health.

Wilting in Syringa persica can result from water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Syringa persica are typically caused by fungal or bacterial infections, which can lead to defoliation and reduced photosynthetic capacity.

Rotting in Syringa persica, particularly root or stem rot, is often caused by excessive moisture and poor drainage, leading to decay and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Syringa persica is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with ingestion or contact.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No specific safety precautions are necessary for cats exposed to Syringa persica.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Syringa persica is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with ingestion or contact.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No specific safety precautions are necessary for dogs exposed to Syringa persica.
Humans
Non-toxic

Syringa persica, commonly known as Persian lilac, is not considered toxic to humans. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with ingestion or contact.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No specific safety precautions are necessary for human exposure to Syringa persica.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Persian Lilac toxic to pets?

A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.

Q: How often should Persian Lilac be watered?

A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.

Q: Does Persian Lilac attract wildlife?

A: Yes, its fragrant flowers attract bees, butterflies, and birds.

Quick Reference
Family: Oleaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["beginners","fragrance lovers","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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