Syringa vulgaris (purple)

This deciduous shrub features an upright, multi-stemmed habit and is widely admired for its large, fragrant clusters of snowy white flowers, which bloom in mid to late spring. It thrives in USDA hardiness zones 3–7 and prefers cooler temperate regions, tolerating winter freezes but requiring well-drained soil to avoid root rot. Fall foliage transitions to soft shades of green and yellow before shedding for the season. Best planted in full sun, it performs well in moderately fertile, slightly alkaline soil and grows to a mature height of 8–15 feet with a spread of 6–12 feet. Its dense form makes it ideal for hedges, borders, or specimen planting, and it shows moderate deer resistance. While fruit in the form of small, dry capsules appears after blooming, they are not particularly ornamental. Known for its elegant shape, this lilac creates stunning visual interest and fills the garden with a pleasantly sweet fragrance during its flowering period.