Flower of the Month – October 2020

Lilac

Family:  Oleaceae Genus: Syringa

Origin: Europe & East Asia

Availability:  Mid Spring

Colours: White, Pink, Purple

What’s in a name: The botanical name “Syringa” is derived from the Greek “Syrinx” meaning pipe or tube. This is due to the history of the incredibly dense Lilac stems being utilised in the making of musical instruments. The common name Lilac is traced back to the Persian “nilak” meaning “bluish”.

 

Why we love it: It’s hard to miss these plump flowers and their beautiful fragrance as they bloom in spring gardens. It’s even harder to restrain from bringing them indoors where their perfume fills any room with pure joy. Lilacs are also often considered to symbolize love.

How to get the most out of them: Lilac require a bit of extra love and care but they are well worth the work.

1. Purchase when heavily perfumed and at least half of the stem is in bloom as buds will not open in the vase.
2. Avoid bunches with falling flowers or no open buds.
3. Remove lower leaves and recut stems with sharp secateurs.
4. Cut up, into stems with sharp secateurs in a cross pattern to allow for deeper water absorption and a longer vase life.
5. Add preservative to water to maintain fragrance.
6. Refresh water every other day.
7. Keep away from sources of ethylene gases, such as car fumes, cigarette smoke and overripe fruit.