Lilac Tree Details

Lilac trees can grow to a height of 30 feet and usually have a rounded, upright shape. If your garden is smaller, consider a dwarf lilac tree, like our Tinkerbell, for a mature height of five to eight feet with a four- to five-foot spread. Lilac trees have fragrant blooms, just like their bushy cousins, and will provide a good amount of shade as they grow. Fragrant, fluffy flowers in summer are a highly anticipated show!

Trees with Fragrant Flowers

The flowers of lilac trees are similar to those on lilac bushes, but they generally have smaller individual blossoms. The range of color has traditionally been more limited, usually only cream to pink, but some purple cultivars have been introduced. Varieties popular with Nature Hills customers include:

• Tinkerbell Lilac Tree - Wine red buds open to bright pink blooms with a spicy scent. Dwarf size from the Fairytale® series works well in containers.
• Bloomerang® Lilac Tree - Purple flowers appear repeatedly in spring, summer and early autumn. Blooms on old and new wood, so pruning is not necessary.
• Miss Kim Lilac Tree - Three season of color: Lavender-colored flowers bloom a bit later in spring than other lilacs. Foliage remains deep green all summer, then turns red in autumn.

The blooms of lilac trees generally appear after those of lilac bushes and will last about the same length of time.

Special Care & Potential Planting Issues

Lilac trees should be protected from damage caused by wind and other natural sources, as well as human damage. This is because lilac trees take a fairly long time to recover from damage. The wood of Lilac trees is softer than that of some of the larger trees, which means it can sustain damage more easily than its heartier cousins.

Where to Plant a Lilac Tree

Plant your Lilac tree in a location of full sunlight, just like all other lilacs. When pruning, it is important not to remove too much from a lilac tree, as this will likely reduce the flower output the following year. Some varieties need no pruning to deliver abundant blooms, so be sure to consult the specific instructions that accompany your Nature Hills lilac tree delivery.

Trees & Bushes for a Lifetime of Beauty

When cared for properly and given the proper growing conditions, a lilac tree can easily survive for nearly 100 years!

Nature Hills Nursery offers a guarantee for your lilac tree’s first year. We’re committed to bringing the highest-quality trees, bushes and plants right to your door. Contact our onsite plant experts with any questions about planting or caring for your lilac tree.