Trees

Syringa pubescens subsp. pubescens

Meyer lilac tree

Also known as: Syringa meyeri · Korean lilac · Downy lilac

Meyer lilac flowers; species-level photograph.

Meyer lilac brings dense clusters of fragrant lavender flowers and small, slightly ruffled leaves to the spring garden. Grown as a standard, its leafy crown is raised on a clear trunk rather than branching from the ground. Place it near a sitting area to enjoy the fragrance, with sun and good drainage for the strongest flowering.

At a glance

Sun: Full sun to part shade
Size: Height: Total height depends on the nursery's trained trunk or graft height and subsequent crown growth; confirm supplied stock. · Width: Crown spread depends on the named selection and pruning of the standard; confirm the supplied selection.
Water: Moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness: USDA 3–7
Bloom: Fragrant lavender flower clusters in spring

Sizes & prices

#10Dwarf Korean Lilac on Standard$199.99

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

Ask about this plant

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Landscape use & tree form

Use: Ornamental specimen; Screening
Growth rate: Slow
Major issues: Good air circulation reduces foliage disease; watch for mildew, bacterial blight and borers.
Form: Rounded flowering crown trained on a single stem.
Fruit / litter: Species-type small dry seed capsules may persist into winter; no fleshy fruit crop.

Resistance & tolerances

Deer: Resistant, not deer-proof
Drought: Tolerates occasional dry spells once established
Wet soil: Avoid soggy or poorly drained ground.
Disease: More resistant to powdery mildew than many lilacs
Heat: Parent-species guidance: Heat tolerant with suitable soil moisture.

Resistance is not a guarantee; deer and rabbits may browse any plant.

Pollinators & wildlife

Attracts: Butterflies, Hummingbirds
Evidence: Species-level guidance; cultivar habitat value varies.

Seasonal interest

Foliage: Small green leaves; deciduous

Growing & care

Soil: Moist, well-drained; brief dry periods tolerated
Pruning: Shape just after spring flowering. On standards, remove rootstock and trunk shoots.

Sources & photo credits

NC State Extension

The Morton Arboretum

NC State Extension

Photo: Chipmunk, via NC State Extension, CC BY-SA 2.0 · CC BY-SA 2.0, as credited by NC State Extension

Image notes: Meyer lilac flowers; species-level photograph. Resized and converted to WebP under the linked license.

Reviewed September 22, 2026. Growing conditions vary by location.