Shrubs

Syringa 'Declaration'

Declaration lilac

Photo courtesy of USDA Agricultural Research Service, U.S. National Arboretum. Shown without enlargement.

Large clusters of fragrant reddish-purple flowers open early in spring above green leaves. This upright lilac broadens into a rounded shrub with age. It is particularly suited to cooler climates, where it can become a substantial flowering backdrop or fragrant garden specimen.

At a glance

Sun: Full sun to light shade
Size at stated age: About 8.5 ft. at 25 years tall × About 6.75 ft. at 25 years wide
Water: Moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness: USDA zones 5–7
Bloom: Reddish-purple; early spring

Sizes & prices

B&B$79.99
#7Columnar Red/purple$74.99

Catalog updated September 8, 2026. This is not a live stock count; please call to confirm availability and price.

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Seasonal interest

Foliage: Deciduous.

Growing & care

Pruning: Prune immediately after flowering; later cuts remove next spring’s buds.

Sources & photo credits

U.S. National Arboretum

University of Minnesota Extension

NC State Extension

Photo: Photo courtesy of USDA Agricultural Research Service, U.S. National Arboretum · U.S. federal government work; public domain; no implied endorsement

Reviewed September 21, 2026. Growing conditions vary by location.