Summer Flare® Japanese Tree Lilac

Syringa reticulata ‘SumDak’ (Family: Oleaceae)

Description: A tall, upright Japanese tree lilac growing in a nontypical form for the species. The stiffly ascending branches above a substantial trunk combine to create a tree lilac much narrower in form and greater in height than cultivars or seedling grown plants
generally found in the landscape. Large creamy white flower panicles in late June, good foliage quality, and prominent bark lenticels add to its ornamental features.

Hardiness: USDA hardiness zones 3 - 6

Mature Size: Height: 30 - 35’, Spread: 14 - 16’

Form (Shape): Narrowly oval to upright

Growth Rate: Medium

Foliage: Deciduous

Summer: Bright green
Autumn: Insignificant

Texture: Medium

Flower: Large terminally borne panicles, creamy white in color and consisting of many small perfect, fragrant flowers. Flowering occurs in late June after foliage formation and persists for several weeks.

Fruit: Tan capsules in large panicles that persist through winter adding to seasonal interest.

Light Preference: Full sun exposure

Soil Preference: Moderately drought tolerant, prefers moist well-drained soil. Soil adaptable even to alkaline soils. Will tolerate dry soils once established. Intolerant of wet and flooded soils.

Propagation: Budding and grafting, cuttings and tissue culture.

Ornamental Attributes: The desirable upright growth form, showy flowers, summer foliage quality, and bronze gray bark create an attractive large Japanese tree lilac for urban planting.

Landscape Attributes: Recommended for use as a boulevard, landscape, public grounds, parks, schools, and golf course tree where a large tree form Japanese tree lilac can be used to diversify tree species use.

Comments: Consideration can be given in street side plantings as an upright, stress tolerant tree for urban planting.

Availability: Grafting and budding materials available for trial.