Overview & Description

The Pocahontas Lilac (Syringa x hyacinthiflora ‘Pocahontas’) is an exceptionally hardy, early-blooming hybrid developed in 1935 by Frank Skinner in Dropmore, Manitoba, Canada . Deep maroon-purple buds open to fragrant, single, deep violet flowers in large, conical panicles, blooming 7 to 10 days before common French lilacs and extending the lilac season. Its heart-shaped, dark green foliage emerges with a bronze tinge and may turn attractive shades of deep purple in autumn.

Growth & Size

This variety exhibits an upright, multi-stemmed, spreading to rounded growth habit. It is a moderate-growing shrub, typically reaching a mature size of about 10 to 12 feet in height with a spread of 8 to 10 feet. Under ideal conditions, it can be expected to live for approximately 30 years.

Additional Notes

It blooms in early to mid-spring. Hardy to Zone 2, it thrives in full sun and well-drained, neutral to slightly alkaline soil, tolerating a range of soil types and urban pollution. It is deer resistant, attracts butterflies and hummingbirds, and has good disease resistance with limited suckering. Prune immediately after flowering as it blooms on old wood. An outstanding choice for hedges, screens, borders, or as a fragrant specimen where early bloom time, bold colour, and exceptional hardiness are desired.