James Keith
Family
Oleaceae
Botanical Name
Syringa vulgaris 'Beauty of Moscow' ('Krasavitsa Moskvy')
Plant Common Name
Beauty of Moscow Lilac, Common Lilac
General Description
The cold hardy and intensely fragrant ‘Krasavitsa Moskvy’ is a beautifully feminine double white flowered lilac that is pink in bud—-perfect for a bridal bouquet. It is one of the earlier introductions of the renowned Russian hybridist, Leonoid Kolesniko, who crossed a Russian selection with the well-known French cultivar ‘Belle de Nancy’ to obtain this stunning lilac. This classic cultivar was first introduced in 1943, and its name translates to ‘Beauty of Moscow.’
When not in bloom the large, rounded, deciduous shrub offers little interest, but it is exceptionally beautiful when its upright flower panicles appear in late spring to early summer. ‘Krasavitsa Moskvy’ offers loads of double white and pale pink flowers that are highly fragrant and ideal for cutting. The blooms are held at tips of the branches and attract bees, butterflies and other insect pollinators.
Lilacs develop their best habit and flowers when grown in full sun. They prefer average to fertile soil that is neutral to slightly alkaline and well-drained. Though moderately drought tolerant, lilacs grow best if 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 the telltale half-moon shaped holes along the trunks. Powdery mildew is also a yearly problem. Extreme drought stress can invite both.
French lilacs make fine feature plants. Cut their fresh blossoms for fragrant, long-lasting flower arrangements.
Characteristics
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AHS Heat Zone
8 - 1
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USDA Hardiness Zone
4 - 8
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Sunset Zone
A1, A2, A3, 1a, 1b, 2a, 2b, 3a, 3b, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 14
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Plant Type
Shrub
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Sun Exposure
Full Sun, Partial Sun
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Height
9'-12' / 2.7m - 3.7m
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Width
9'-12' / 2.7m - 3.7m
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Bloom Time
Spring, Late Spring
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Native To
Eastern Europe
Growing Conditions
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Soil pH
Neutral, Alkaline
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Soil Drainage
Well Drained
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Soil type
Clay, Loam, Sand
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Growth Rate
Medium
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Water Requirements
Average Water
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Habit
Upright/Erect
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Seasonal Interest
Spring, Summer
