Plant Focus: Syringa meyeri ‘Palibin’

Love the flower and wafting scent of Lilac, but put off by the fact that they grow too big too fast, or sucker, or look a bit like shrubby weeds when not in flower? Well, the Korean Lilac, Syringa meyeri ‘Palibin’ might be for you.

What’s it like?

Like all Lilacs, it is deciduous, but this form is much more compact and slow(ish) growing so ideal for smaller gardens or where space is more restricted. It produces masses of highly fragrant lavender flowers in May and very early June, which fill the air for quite some distance.

Where can I use it?

It is fully hardy, likes full sun, but will tolerate a  bit of shade, and will grow in most neutral to alkaline soils, preferably fairly well drained. It will also benefit from a compost mulch in Spring.

It is ideal in a any mixed border and I have also used it as a mini Lilac hedge – as after flowering it maintains a neat shape.

So, if you have a bit of space in your garden, why not give it a try?

Image credits: Syringa meyeri ‘Palibin’ 1, Syringa meyeri ‘Palibin’ 2, Syringa meyeri ‘Palibin’ 3, Syringa meyeri ‘Palibin’ 4