Syringa x hyacinthiflora 'Old Glory'

• Pollinators: Attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds with its fragrant, nectar-rich flowers.
• Wildlife: Deer-resistant due to its dense foliage and aromatic flowers.

• Season: Spring through Fall
• Flowering Season: Early spring (April to May)

Accent Plant: Its showy, fragrant, deep bluish-lavender blooms make it a stunning focal point in spring gardens.

Foundation Planting: Ideal for placing near windows, entryways, or patios where its early blooms and scent can be appreciated.

Mixed Shrub Borders: Adds height, fragrance, and early color to layered plantings.

Pollinator Gardens: Attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds with its nectar-rich flowers.

Cottage and Traditional Gardens: Perfect for romantic, informal garden styles with a classic aesthetic.

Hedging or Screening: Its upright growth and dense form make it suitable for seasonal privacy when planted in a row.

Cut Flower Gardens: Excellent source of fragrant cut flowers in mid to early spring.

Early-Season Interest: As a hyacinthiflora hybrid, it blooms earlier than most lilacs, extending the flowering season.

• Color: Dark green foliage in spring and summer, turning yellow in the fall.
• Shape: Heart-shaped leaves with a smooth texture and pointed tips.
• Size: Leaves grow 2-5 inches long, forming a dense, bushy appearance that provides good coverage.

• Color: Rich lavender-blue flower clusters with a sweet fragrance.
• Bloom Time: Blooms in early spring, often earlier than other lilac varieties.
• Size of Blooms: Large, conical flower clusters, 6-8 inches long, creating an impressive floral display.

• Best Time to Plant: Early spring or fall is ideal, allowing the plant to establish before extreme temperatures.

Planting Instructions:

• Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, slightly alkaline soil (pH 6.5-7.5). It is adaptable to various soil types, including loamy, sandy, or clay soils, but thrives in fertile soil.
• Spacing: Space plants 5-6 feet apart to allow for mature growth and good air circulation.
• Depth: Plant at the same depth as the root ball, ensuring the crown is just above soil level.

• Pruning Needs: Prune immediately after blooming in late spring to shape the plant and remove spent flowers. Avoid heavy pruning in late summer or fall, as this can reduce next season’s blooms.
• Winter Care: 'Old Glory' is cold-hardy and requires no special winter care. Mulching around the base can help protect the roots in colder regions.
• Deadheading: Remove spent flower heads after blooming to maintain a tidy appearance and encourage healthy growth.

• Watering Frequency: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish deep roots. Once established, 'Old Glory' is moderately drought-tolerant but performs best with regular watering during dry periods.
• Drought Tolerance: Can handle some drought, but prefers consistent moisture for best flowering.

Full sun (6+ hours of direct sunlight per day) for optimal bloom production and overall health. It can tolerate partial shade but may have fewer blooms.

• When to Harvest: Harvest flowers when the buds are half-open for the freshest, longest-lasting blooms in floral arrangements.
• How to Harvest: Use sharp pruning shears to cut stems just above a set of leaves. Harvest in the early morning for best hydration.

• When to Fertilize: Fertilize in early spring before new growth begins and again after blooming to encourage lush growth and abundant flowering.
• Type of Fertilizer: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or organic compost to support healthy plant development.

• Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch around the base to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds.
• Pests: Generally pest-free, though lilac borers or aphids may occasionally appear. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil if necessary.
• Disease: Ensure good air circulation to prevent powdery mildew and other fungal diseases. 'Old Glory' is resistant to most common lilac diseases.

• Self-Pollinating: Syringa x hyacinthiflora 'Old Glory' is self-pollinating but attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators to its fragrant flowers, which enhances bloom production and supports garden biodiversity.

Peonies (Paeonia spp.) – Bloom in the same season and match the romantic, classic garden look.

Salvia nemorosa 'Caradonna' – Deep purple flower spikes echo the lilac’s tone and attract pollinators.

Heuchera 'Lime Rickey' or 'Plum Pudding' – Colorful foliage contrasts well with lilac flowers and adds season-long interest.

Nepeta 'Walker's Low' – Soft, mounding form and lavender-blue blooms complement the lilac’s upright habit.

Allium 'Globemaster' – Adds architectural interest and blooms slightly after lilac for succession planting.

Rosa 'The Fairy' or other low shrub roses – Continuous bloom and texture contrast with lilac’s structure.

Spiraea 'Goldflame' or 'Magic Carpet' – Bright foliage provides a warm contrast to lilac's cool-toned flowers.

Boxwood (Buxus spp.) – Provides evergreen form and structure to frame or underplant the lilac.