To grow most lilacs you need some space, since they will grow up like small trees and branch out on woody stems. Lilacs serve well in landscaped gardens where they contribute well to banks of foliage and in shrubberies. They can also be used as screening and for windbreaks.

Their pyramidal flowers are always the centre of attraction and in quantity the scent from lilac can be a little heady and soporific. Although the normal colour is mauve to purple, there are white lilacs and many other varieties where there are intricate differences in the detailing of the individuals flowers.

Looking Good:
Check out the lilacs in summer at Iford Manor, near Bradford-on-Avon.

Best With:
Best with a Montana clematis growing through it.