Trees

Syringa reticulata 'Ivory Silk'

Ivory Silk Japanese tree lilac

Ivory Silk Japanese tree lilac photographed by David J. Stang; 0.

Creamy white flower plumes brighten the canopy in late spring, followed by dark green summer leaves. The upright crown becomes rounder with age, and golden autumn foliage exposes shiny brown bark as it falls. This is a true small tree, distinct from familiar shrubby lilacs.

At a glance

Sun: Full sun for best flowering
Size: Height: 20 ft. · Width: 15 ft.
Water: Moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness: USDA zone 4 minimum
Bloom: Creamy white; late spring

Sizes & prices

#10Ivory Silk Tree Lilca$224.99

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

Ask about this plant

Select a section to expand.

Landscape use & tree form

Form: Upright spreading becoming rounded
Use: Ornamental flowering tree; small shade tree
Major issues: Generally less troubled by mildew, borers and scale than common lilacs.
Growth rate: Moderate
Fruit / litter: Dry capsules can remain into winter.

Resistance & tolerances

Deer: Parent species is relatively browse resistant; not deer-proof.
Drought: Dry-weather care: Moist, well-drained soil. Maintain the recommended moisture during extended dry spells; no cultivar-specific drought rating confirmed.
Wet soil: Good drainage is required.

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

Pollinators & wildlife

Attracts: Pollinators

Seasonal interest

Foliage: Deciduous
Fall color: Golden yellow

Growing & care

Pruning: Shape just after flowering; for reblooming types, prune after the first spring flush. On standards, remove rootstock and trunk shoots.
Soil: Rich, well-drained soil; tolerates clay and urban sites if drainage is adequate.

Sources & photo credits

J. Frank Schmidt & Son Co.

University of Minnesota Extension

NC State Extension

Photo: David J. Stang · CC BY-SA 4.0

Image notes: Ivory Silk Japanese tree lilac photographed by David J. Stang; resized from the original under CC BY-SA 4.0.

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