Japanese tree lilac (Syringa reticulata, J. Jap. Bot. 17: 21 (1941))

Family: Oleaceae

Author: (Blume) H.Hara

Bibliography: J. Jap. Bot. 17: 21 (1941)

Year: 1941

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Syringa

Vegetable: False

Observations: Russian Far East to China and Japan

Description

The Japanese tree lilac, scientifically known as Syringa reticulata, is a captivating member of the Oleaceae family. This deciduous tree has garnered admiration for its stunning floral display and hardiness, making it a beloved addition to gardens and landscapes in various regions.

Originating from the Russian Far East and extending down to China and Japan, the Japanese tree lilac thrives in diverse climates, showcasing its adaptability. In its native regions, it is commonly found growing in mixed forests and along forest edges, where it enjoys ample sunlight and well-drained soil.

One of the distinguishing features of Syringa reticulata is its large, creamy-white, and fragrant flower clusters that bloom in early to mid-summer, a unique trait among lilacs which generally flower in spring. These panicles can reach up to 12 inches in length, offering a magnificent spectacle that attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Beyond its flowers, this tree is also appreciated for its attractive, dark green foliage that turns to a delicate yellow in the fall, adding seasonal interest to any landscape.

The Japanese tree lilac is not just a visual delight but also a practical choice for urban planting. Its ability to withstand pollution, compact soil, and varying light conditions makes it an excellent candidate for street and park plantings. Additionally, its resistance to common lilac diseases, such as powdery mildew, further enhances its desirability among gardeners and landscapers.

First described in detail by H.Hara in the Journal of Japanese Botany in 1941, the Japanese tree lilac continues to be studied and appreciated for both its ecological and ornamental value. Its robust nature and showy blooms ensure that it remains a cherished plant for both amateur and professional horticulturists alike.

In conclusion, Syringa reticulata, with its elegant blooms and hardy disposition, stands out as a versatile and beautiful tree. Whether planted as a solitary specimen, in groups, or lining avenues, the Japanese tree lilac undoubtedly enriches the environment with its charm and resilience.

Common Names

Eng: japanese tree lilac, tree lilac
Swe: ligustersyren
Nob: ligustersyrin
Nno: ligustersyrin
Fra: lilas japonais
En: Japanese tree lilac, Tree lilac
Fr: Lilas japonais
Nb: Ligustersyrin
Nn: Ligustersyrin
Sv: Ligustersyren

Synonyms

• Ligustrum reticulatum (Blume)
• Ligustrina reticulata ((Blume) Nakai)

Distribution

• Amur (native)
• China North-Central (native)
• China South-Central (native)
• China Southeast (native)
• Inner Mongolia (native)
• Japan (native)
• Khabarovsk (native)
• Korea (native)
• Kuril Is. (native)
• Manchuria (native)
• Primorye (native)
• New York (introduced)
• Vermont (introduced)

Additional Images

Leaf

Taken Dec 8, 2022 by Christine Grevy (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 15, 2022 by johann m (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 21, 2019 by Serge Dupont (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 15, 2022 by Sheri-Ann Kelly (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 11, 2022 by Babette Novak (cc-by-sa)

Flower

Taken May 23, 2017 by Dieter Albrecht (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 23, 2017 by Dieter Albrecht (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 23, 2017 by Dieter Albrecht (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 17, 2022 by Michel G (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 4, 2021 by Safa Yılmaz (cc-by-sa)

Other

Taken May 23, 2017 by Dieter Albrecht (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken Jun 20, 2022 by AJ E (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 21, 2019 by Serge Dupont (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 30, 2021 by a t (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 29, 2022 by Jan Hutař (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 5, 2021 by Brian Groves (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken May 31, 2022 by Irmgard Groß (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 23, 2022 by Willem Defieuw (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 21, 2019 by Serge Dupont (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 7, 2021 by Vlastik Vlastchlast (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken Sep 7, 2022 by Kai Best (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 18, 2021 by plants mustard (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 18, 2021 by plants mustard (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 7, 2021 by michel montagne (cc-by-sa)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5415038)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:611156-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Syringa reticulata (Blume) H.Hara)

Specifications

Growth habit: Tree, Shrub

Growth