This lilac puts on a mid-spring show with large clusters of purple flowers edged in white. Its flowers are sweetly scented and in addition to the unusual coloring. This large shrub can grow to 10 feet tall and 6 feet wide but can be pruned after it blooms in the spring. Plant this shrub in an area where you can enjoy its iconic fragrance.
Lilacs prefer alkaline soils and are drought-tolerant once established. They bloom best in full sun but will tolerate light shade.
Lilacs have few major insects to worry about but should be lightly pruned after they bloom to remove spent flowers and encourage energy to go into next year’s blooms. They should also be placed in well-ventilated areas to avoid powdery mildew. The Sensation lilac works well as an accent plant, a large foundation plant, or even a hedge.