Key features
Final size3.5 x 3.5 metres in 20 years
FoliageHeart-shaped green leaves (deciduous)
FlowersDark purple flowers with white margins in spring/summer
SoilPrefers moist yet well-draining soil
Description
The name truly says it all with this Lilac, it is sensational. Syringa vulgaris ‘Sensation’ produces masses of highly fragrant, dark-purple flowers with a distinctive, unusual and striking white margin to each flower. The eye-catching flowers appear in May-June and are attractive to all sorts of wildlife, such as bees and butterflies.
Syringa vulgaris ‘Sensation’, commonly known as the Lilac Sensation tree, has pretty mid to dark green, heart shaped foliage that makes an attractive foil for the flowers. Lilac Sensation will grow into a large bush, reaching around 3.5 metres height and spread in 20 years. Tolerant of alkaline soils, it likes well-drained soil with a sunny aspect.
Lilac Sensation is a striking bush for both large and small gardens alike and adds a wonderful sensory experience. Click here to go to all Lilac trees and bushes.
AKA Sensation Lilac tree, Lilac Purple Sensation, Syringa ‘Sensation’
Planting Steps
1Preparation
- Pot-grown plants can be planted at any time of year, whereas bare roots need to be planted between November and March.
- Clear weeds and grass within a metre of the planting hole.
- Dig a hole as deep as the root mass and twice as wide.
- To help your plant establish more effectively, sprinkle Rootgrow in the hole.
2Planting
- Gently loosen the roots and place into the planting hole.
- Ensure the top of the plant’s compost is flush with the level of the surrounding soil and the graft union or collar of the tree is above ground level.
- Mix 50% of the original soil with 50% compost.
- Fill in the hole, firming the soil gently.
3Last Steps
- Water generously around the base of the plant.
- If you are planting either a single stem tree or mature standard tree, we recommend adding a staking kit and rabbit guard.
Aftercare Advice
Trees and shrubs require a good watering regime for a couple of years whilst they establish. Water well and regularly through spring and summer, increasing in hot or dry weather. If planting in autumn, you may only need to water a little. It is advisable to keep the area free of competing weeds and grass during this period.
For more detailed advice and video guides, please visit our Help & Advice section.
