Key features
Final size3.5 x 3.5 metres in 20 years
FoliageHeart-shaped green leaves (deciduous)
FlowersFragrant, panicles of purple flowers in spring/summer
Eco benefitsGood for pollinators
SoilPrefers alkaline to neutral soil
Description
Syringa vulgaris ‘Souvenir de Louis Spaeth’ produces a profusion of highly fragrant purple flowers in long panicles. The flowers attract pollinators and stand out well against the backdrop of heart-shaped, mid-green deciduous foliage.
A lovely Purple Lilac tree, Souvenir de Louis Spaeth’ can grow into a large bush that is 3.5 metres in height and spread over 20 years. Doing well in full sun or partial shade, Lilac ‘Souvenir de Louis Spaeth’ prefers a well-drained soil with a neutral to alkaline acidity.
This Lilac variety has received the RHS AGM and is valued for it’s reliable, richly coloured flowers in panicles up to 30cm long.
AKA Syringa vulgaris ‘Andenken an Ludwig Späth’, Lilac ‘Souvenir de Louis Spaeth’, Purple lilac tree
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.
