Hyacinth Lilac Syringa × hyacinthiflora 'Esther Staley'

☠ Toxic to humans

🐾 Toxic to pets

🌸 Blooming

🍪 Not edible

‍🌱 Easy-care

ABOUT

The plant known as 'Esther Staley' is a cross between the common lilac and the early blooming Hyacinth-flowered lilac, resulting in a stunning ornamental shrub. This lilac is cherished for its clusters of flowers, known as panicles, which are dense, conical, and have a shimmering appearance. The blossoms are particularly noteworthy for their color: a deep and rich pink hue that catches the eye. Each individual flower within the clusters is tubular with four lobes, spreading outward to form a star shape that adds to its visual appeal. In addition to its striking blossoms, 'Esther Staley' possesses heart-shaped leaves that have a somewhat leathery feel. These leaves are green, providing a lush backdrop that further accentuates the vibrant flowers. Although I am to eliminate size-related details, the plant can be characterized by a bushy growth habit, with multiple stems that rise from the base and create a rounded overall form. During the flowering season, which typically occurs in late spring, 'Esther Staley' produces an enchanting fragrance. The scent can be described as sweet and heady, a characteristic trait among many lilac varieties. 'Esther Staley' exemplifies the classic beauty of lilacs, offering visual appeal with its notable blossoms, pleasant structure, and aromatic contribution to any garden setting in which it is planted.

Plant Info

Care

Common Problems

About this plant

Names
- Family
  Oleaceae
- Synonyms
  Esther Staley Lilac, Hyacinth-Flowered Lilac
- Common names
  Syringa × hyacinthiflora 'Esther Staley'.
Toxicity
- To humans
  The common name for Syringa × hyacinthiflora 'Esther Staley' is the hyacinth-flowered lilac. This plant is considered to have a low level of toxicity to humans. Ingesting parts of the plant can cause gastrointestinal issues such as abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. In some cases, ingestion could also lead to more severe symptoms if large quantities are eaten, but these occurrences are relatively rare as the plant's bitter taste often deters significant consumption.
- To pets
  The hyacinth-flowered lilac has a low level of toxicity to pets as well. If pets, such as dogs or cats, ingest parts of this plant, they may experience similar gastrointestinal distress which includes symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea. In most cases, the consumption of small amounts may only result in mild discomfort, but consumption of large quantities should be avoided to prevent more serious health issues. If you suspect your pet has ingested a significant portion of the plant and is showing concerning symptoms, contact a veterinarian.
Characteristics
- Life cycle
  Perennials
- Foliage type
  Deciduous
- Color of leaves
  Green
- Flower color
  Pink
- Height
  8-12 feet (2.4-3.7 meters)
- Spread
  6-10 feet (1.8-3 meters)
- Plant type
  Shrub
- Hardiness zones
  4-8
- Native area
  Cultivar

Benefits

General Benefits
- Ornamental Appeal: Esther Staley lilac is known for its striking and colorful blooms which add aesthetic value to gardens and landscapes.
- Fragrance: This lilac variety emits a strong, sweet scent that is highly valued for perfuming outdoor spaces and cut flower arrangements.
- Attracts Pollinators: The bright flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators, supporting local ecosystems.
- Ease of Care: Lilacs are relatively low-maintenance plants that can thrive with basic gardening care, making them suitable for many gardeners.
- Longevity: Lilacs are hardy shrubs that can live for many years, providing long-term enjoyment with a single planting.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, lilacs are capable of surviving periods of low water, making them suitable for drier climates.
- Seasonal Interest: The vibrant springtime flowers bring seasonal interest to the landscape, marking the transition from spring to summer.
Medical Properties
This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying Qualities
This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses
- The flowers of the Syringa × hyacinthiflora 'Esther Staley', also known as the Esther Staley Lilac, can be used to create natural dyes for textiles, offering a range of purple and lilac hues depending on the mordant used.
- Esther Staley Lilac's wood is dense and can be carved into small objects like utensils or ornamental items, though on a limited scale due to the size of the shrub.
- The floral scent of Esther Staley Lilacs can be captured and used in the making of potpourri, providing a lasting fragrance for households.
- In the language of flowers, the Esther Staley Lilac could be used to symbolize the first emotions of love, and as such, branches may be included in bridal bouquets or wedding decorations.
- Dried Esther Staley Lilac flowers can be used in crafting, such as for making floral arrangements or adding to homemade paper for texture and color.
- Esther Staley Lilacs can be planted as part of a wildlife-friendly garden to attract pollinators such as butterflies and bees, thus supporting local ecosystems.
- The flowers can be used in the culinary field to infuse sugar or syrups, lending a subtle, floral flavor to desserts and beverages.
- Culinary enthusiasts sometimes crystallize Esther Staley Lilac flowers to use as an edible decoration on cakes and pastries.
- Due to its pleasing aesthetic, Esther Staley Lilac might be used in photography and art as a subject for helping to teach concepts of light and shadow because of its clusters of flowers.
- Esther Staley Lilac branches can be used in floristry, especially for spring-themed floral displays, where the fresh flowers add vibrant color and fragrance.

Interesting Facts

Feng Shui
The Lilac is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign Compitability
The Lilac is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism
- Romance and First Love: As a type of lilac, the 'Esther Staley' evokes the sweet emotions of young love and the innocence of first emotional connections.
- Renewal and Fresh Beginnings: Blooming in spring, lilacs symbolize the refreshing newness of the season, often associated with youthfulness and rebirth.
- Nostalgia and Memories: The familiar fragrance of lilacs can recall fond memories, making it a symbol for remembrance and the past.
- Beauty and Elegance: With its exquisite flowers, the lilac is often associated with beauty and grace, highlighting its aesthetic charm.

💧

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

☀️

2500 - 10000 Lux

Light

💦️

Humidity

🪴

Every 3-5 years

Repotting

🌱️

Spring

Propogation

✂️️

As needed

Pruning

Water
For the hybrid lilac 'Esther Staley', it is important to provide consistent moisture, especially during the growing season. Water the plant deeply once a week, providing about 1 to 1.5 inches of water to thoroughly moisten the soil without causing waterlogging. During hot, dry spells, increase watering frequency to twice a week. In the dormant winter months, reduce watering, as the plant requires less moisture. It’s crucial to avoid overhead watering to prevent disease; instead, water at the base of the plant.
Light
Hybrid lilacs like 'Esther Staley' thrive best in full sun with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. However, they can tolerate light shade, especially in regions with very hot summers. The ideal spot is an open area away from larger trees and buildings that might cast shade and inhibit bloom.
Temperature
The 'Esther Staley' hybrid lilac prefers moderate temperatures and grows best in USDA hardiness zones 3 through 7. It can survive minimum winter temperatures down to -40 degrees Fahrenheit and it tends to flourish in the spring when temperatures are between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. These lilacs require a period of winter chill to produce abundant flowers in the spring.
Pruning
Pruning the 'Esther Staley' hybrid lilac is best done right after flowering in late spring, as it blooms on old wood. Remove spent flower clusters to promote vigor and prevent the plant from becoming too leggy. Prune out any dead or damaged branches, as well as those that are crossing and disrupting the open, airy structure of the shrub. A thorough pruning every few years will revitalize older shrubs, but annual light shaping is beneficial.
Cleaning
As needed
Soil
The Hyacinth-flowered lilac 'Esther Staley' thrives best in well-draining, loamy soil enriched with organic matter and a neutral to slightly alkaline pH level, typically between 6.5 and 7.5. A good mix would include garden soil, compost, and a small proportion of perlite or vermiculite to improve drainage.
Repotting
The Hyacinth-flowered lilac 'Esther Staley' is generally not a plant that requires frequent repotting. It is a shrub typically planted outdoors, where it does not need repotting but may benefit from occasional transplanting if it outgrows its space or needs rejuvenation.
Humidity & Misting
The Hyacinth-flowered lilac 'Esther Staley' prefers average outdoor humidity levels. It is adaptable and does not require specific humidity control but thrives in conditions typical to temperate climates.
Suitable locations
- Indoor
  Grow Hyacinth-flowered lilac 'Esther Staley' in large pots with ample light.
- Outdoor
  Plant in fertile, well-drained soil; full sun exposure is best.
- Hardiness zone
  3-7 USDA
Life cycle
Syringa × hyacinthiflora 'Esther Staley', commonly known as Esther Staley Lilac, begins its life cycle as a seed that germinates in moist, well-drained soil. Upon sprouting, the seedling grows into a young plant, developing a root system and foliage. As it matures into a woody shrub over several years, it forms a strong framework of branches. Once mature enough, typically within a few years, it produces fragrant, colorful flowers in late spring, which are its most recognized feature. After pollination, the flowers develop into seed capsules that eventually dry and release seeds, continuing the reproductive cycle. Over time, the shrub can become larger and denser, requiring periodic pruning to maintain health and vigor and to encourage blooming for the following season.
Propogation
- Propogation time
  Spring
- Propogation: The Syringa × hyacinthiflora 'Esther Staley', commonly known as the Lilac 'Esther Staley', is best propagated by softwood cuttings taken in early summer. To propagate using this method, new growth that is just beginning to harden off is selected. Cuttings should be about 4 to 6 inches (approximately 10 to 15 centimeters) long, with lower leaves removed and the cut end dipped in rooting hormone powder to enhance root development. These prepared cuttings are then placed in a soil mix that drains well, ensuring at least one set of leaves remains above the surface, and the environment is kept humid by covering the cuttings with a plastic dome or bag. Providing indirect light and consistent moisture, roots typically develop in a few weeks, after which the young lilacs can be gradually acclimated to outdoor conditions before planting in the garden.