Lilac Plants

Syringa, commonly called lilac, is a genus of 12 recognized species of flowering woody plants in the olive family, Oleaceae. Lilacs are small trees, ranging from 2m to 10 m of height. The flowers grow in large panicles, and in several species have a strong fragrance. Flowering time happens between mid spring to early summer, depending on the species, in temperate regions of the world. The usual flower colour is a shade of purple, often a light purple or "lilac", but white, pale yellow and pink, and even a dark burgundy colour are also found. The fruit is a dry, brown capsule, splitting in two at maturity to release the two winged seeds.

One particular cultivar, trademark Bloomerang, first blooms in spring and then again late summer through fall. The term French lilac is often used to refer to modern double-flowered cultivars. The common lilac, Syringa vulgaris, tends to flower profusely in alternate years, a habit that can be improved by deadheading the flower clusters after the colour has faded and before seeds, few of which are fertile. 

Lilacs are used as food plants by the larvae of some moth species. Lilac wood is a relatively hard wood, good for woodturning, lilac heartwood can have various streaks of brown and purple. Lilac flowers are edible and used for flavouring honey and sugar. Lilacs bloom on long stems that can be used as perennial cut flowers.