Maureen Gilmer
Family
Oleaceae
Botanical Name
Syringa vulgaris 'Angel White'
Plant Common Name
Angel White, Common Lilac
General Description
Most lilacs need winter cold to flower, but this California bred hybrid is unusually heat tolerant and flowers well in warmer climates. It is the result of Roger Lammerts’ work at Ranch Descanso Nursery in southern California. His goal was to to increase the climatic range of this normally cold-loving plant. ‘Angel White’ was first introduced in 1971 and was popularized and brought into cultivation by Monrovia Nursery.
When not in bloom the large, rounded, deciduous shrub offers little interest, but it is exceptionally beautiful when its flower panicles appear in late spring or early summer. Its clusters of snow-white four-petaled flowers burst open on the branch tips. They have a heady fragrance and make exceptional cut flower arrangements—especially for moonlit California nights. The irresistible flowers attract loads of bees, butterflies and many other insect pollinators.
Lilacs develop their best habit and flowers when grown in full sun. They prefer average to fertile soil with good drainage. Though moderately drought tolerant, these lilacs grow best is given supplemental water during very dry spells. Next year's flower buds are set shortly after blooming, so lilacs must be pruned directly after their yearly display. There are several serious pests and diseases that plague them. Lilac borers can be a fatal, so keep an eye out for their telltale half-moon shaped holes along the trunks. Powdery mildew is also a yearly problem. Extreme drought stress can invite both.
They make fine feature plants and are especially sweet when planted in groups. Cut their fresh blossoms for fragrant, long-lasting flower arrangements.
Characteristics
-
AHS Heat Zone
8 - 1
-
USDA Hardiness Zone
4 - 8
-
Sunset Zone
A1, A2, A3, 1a, 1b, 2a, 2b, 3a, 3b, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 14
-
Plant Type
Shrub
-
Sun Exposure
Full Sun, Partial Sun
-
Height
8'-12' / 2.4m - 3.7m
-
Width
8'-10' / 2.4m - 3.0m
-
Bloom Time
Late Spring, Early Summer
-
Native To
Hybrid Origin, Eastern Europe
Growing Conditions
-
Soil pH
Neutral, Alkaline
-
Soil Drainage
Well Drained
-
Soil type
Clay, Loam, Sand
-
Growth Rate
Medium
-
Water Requirements
Average Water
-
Habit
Upright/Erect
-
Seasonal Interest
Spring, Summer
