Lilac

About the Lilac

One of the most beloved fragrant shrubs, blooming for only 2 weeks each spring. Their scent has been used in perfumery for centuries. Over 1,000 cultivated varieties. They are in the olive family. They can live 100+ years. Rochester, NY hosts the largest lilac festival in the world. They prefer cold winters and alkaline soil. They do not bloom well in hot climates. The wood is among the densest of any shrub. They are the state flower of New Hampshire. They are among the first shrubs to leaf out in spring.