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Katherine Havemeyer lilac
Syringa vulgaris ‘Katherine Havemeyer’
Description
‘Katherine Havemeyer’ lilac - Syringa vulgaris ‘Katherine Havemeyer’
Main features
The ‘Katherine Havemeyer’ lilac is a historic and highly valued variety, famous for its lavish, double blossoms and intoxicating fragrance. It bears large, conical clusters of flowers in soft shades of lilac and violet, opening in May to transform the shrub into a spectacular bouquet. These blooms are not only admired in the garden but also prized as cut flowers, as they retain their sweet, refined fragrance for days.
A vigorous and hardy shrub, it forms a dense, rounded bush that is ideal for a fragrant flowering hedge or as a stand-alone specimen. Like most lilacs, it thrives in many soils, tolerates cold winters, and offers timeless charm to both cottage and urban gardens.
Origin and characteristics
Origin : French horticultural selection, popular since the late 19th century.
Family : Oleaceae.
Key traits : Double, fragrant flowers, shifting hues from bud to bloom, excellent hardiness.
Description : Deciduous shrub with a rounded habit, abundant spring bloom, and attractive green foliage.
Mature height : 3–4 m.
Mature spread : 2–3 m.
Habit : Dense, bushy, rounded.
Bark : Grey, slightly fissured with age.
Leaves : Heart-shaped, green, deciduous.
Growth rate : Moderate to fast.
Hardiness : Down to –25 °C.
Flowering and ornamental value
Flowering time : May.
Flowers : Violet buds opening into double lilac flowers, grouped in large, dense clusters.
Fragrance : Intense, sweet, and refined, typical of traditional lilacs.
Ornamental value : Showy spring bloom, excellent for fragrant bouquets.
Site and soil
Exposure : Full sun preferred, tolerates partial shade but flowers best in sunlight.
Soil : Ordinary, fertile, well-drained, tolerates limestone.
Planting
Advice : Plant in autumn or spring, enrich with compost, and water generously.
Spacing : 2–3 m apart in hedges.
Watering
Young plants : Regular watering in the first years.
Mature plants : Drought tolerant, water only in long dry periods.
Pruning
When : Right after flowering, as buds for next year form quickly.
How : Remove faded blooms and old stems to encourage new growth.
Propagation
Methods : Grafting, layering, or suckers.
Garden uses
Ideal for flowering hedges, as a specimen shrub, or combined with fragrant shrubs and roses in borders.
Additional assets
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Double, fragrant blooms perfect for bouquets.
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Ecological value : attracts bees and butterflies in spring.
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Low-maintenance, hardy, and reliable.
Growing tips
Plant in sunny locations for abundant flowering. Avoid heavy pruning. Mulch the base to preserve soil moisture and provide nutrients.
The Lilac ‘Katherine Havemeyer’ is an old and refined variety, perfect for lovers of fragrant blossoms. In May, it becomes covered with double clusters in shades of lilac and mauve, whose intense fragrance fills the garden. Hardy and vigorous, it adapts to most soils and is easy to grow. Whether planted as a specimen shrub, in a flowering hedge, or used to create stunning spring bouquets, it brings elegance and romance to gardens. A shrub of tradition and charm, Syringa vulgaris ‘Katherine Havemeyer’ remains a reliable choice for enjoying an unforgettable display every spring.
Features
- Common name : Havemeyer Katherine lilac
- Family : Oleaceae
- Category : shrub
- Spread : 2 to 3 m
- Foliage : deciduous
- Color of flowers : Mauve buds open into double, light purplish-lilac flowers, gathered in large, dense clusters.
- Use : isolated - shrubbery - flowering hedge
- Soil : all
- Habit : bushy
- Enemies : Leafminer, mite, aphid, thrips
- Possible diseases : Canker, root rot
Expédition & livraison
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As soon as you place your order your plants are selected
Each order is processed individually.
Plants are packed, staked and labeled.
Packaging is carefully implemented to avoid any problems.
Packages are ready to be shipped.
Our delivery methods
Shipping of our plants throughout Europe (except overseas and islands).
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