Dwarf Korean Lilac

Light Needs

Partial Sun to Full Sun

(At Least 5 Hours of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

4-6 Feet

Mature Spread

5-7 Feet

Growing Zones

3 to 8

Lilacs are quite sentimental flowers for many people. The smell takes some people back to their grandmother's garden or for others signale the hotter days of summer are soon to come. Dwarf Korean Lilac has all of the same intense fragrance and large flowerheads on a much easier to control shrub. In fact this variety is more likely to flower at a younger age than other Lilacs. The medium size shrub makes a great backdrop to a Cottage Garden or as an informal, low hedge along a fenceline or near naturalized areas.

The lovely lavender of the flowers works to attract butterflies, bees and Hummingbirds. Since the medium green foliage is highly mildew and fungus resistant, it makes a great backdrop to summer blooming perennials and fall foliage. Peony, coneflower and ornamental grasses all make great companions for Lilac.

Dwarf Korean Lilac Care

Lilacs tend to prefer a soil that is neutral to alkaline in pH. The texture is not important, as long as the soil is well drained and moist. Full sun to part shade is best to keep Lilacs blooming as long as possible. Extra irrigation may be necessary during times of heat and drought, especially in the first few years. Regular, annual mulching with an organic compost or leaves will help to improve the moisture holding capacity of the soil over time. Drip irrigation and soaker hoses keep excess water off of the foliage, keeping pests and disease at bay.

Pruning of Dwarf Korean Lilac is almost not necessary. The natural mounding shape of this shrub is truly amazing. Deadheading after blooming can be done, but also not necessary. An annual pruning of winter damage can be done early in the spring as the foliage emerges. Be careful not to cut out flower buds, they form on the previous year's growth.

Dwarf Korean Lilac Spacing

Planting Dwarf Korean LIlac in a large group or as a hedge would provide a spectacular burst of blooms. The mature height is only 4-6 feet with a width of 5-7 feet. A spacing of 5 feet, center on center is recommended. The smaller height makes this Lilac a great subject for container planting in a smaller garden. A pot of at least 30 inches in diameter should be used.