Miss Kim Lilac Syringa pubescens subsp. patula 'Miss Kim'
ABOUT
'Miss Kim' is a variety of lilac known for its compact, rounded shape and lush foliage. The leaves of 'Miss Kim' are dark green with a slightly glossy appearance and become burgundy-tinged in the autumn, providing seasonal interest even after the flowers have faded. The plant is adorned with abundant clusters of icy blue to lavender-pink flowers that are highly fragrant and bloom profusely in the spring. These flowers are tubular, and each cluster consists of numerous florets that come together in dense, conical shapes at the ends of the branches. These blossoms are not only visually striking but also attract butterflies, adding a lively element to the garden. The plant's branches grow in an upright and outward fashion, creating a bushy appearance that is well-suited for use as a single specimen or in groups for a more dramatic effect in a landscape design.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Oleaceae
Synonyms
Miss Kim Lilac, Miss Kim Manchurian Lilac, Miss Kim Korean Lilac
Common names
Syringa patula, Syringa pubescens var. patula
ToxicityTo humans
Miss Kim Lilac is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, as with many plants, individual allergies or sensitivities can lead to adverse reactions. It is always advisable to avoid ingesting any part of ornamental plants as a precaution. In rare cases where someone may ingest part of the plant and experience discomfort or symptoms such as stomach upset, it is important to seek medical attention.
To pets
Miss Kim Lilac is not listed as a toxic plant to pets such as cats and dogs. However, ingestion of plant parts can potentially cause mild gastrointestinal upset in some animals due to the unfamiliar plant matter. If a pet consumes a large amount of the plant and shows signs of distress or unusual behavior, it is important to consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Lavender
Height
6-7 feet (1.8-2.1 meters)
Spread
5-6 feet (1.5-1.8 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
3-8
Native area
Korea
Benefits
General Benefits- Compact Size: Grows to a manageable height, making it suitable for smaller gardens and spaces.
- Fragrant Flowers: Produces highly fragrant lavender to ice blue flowers that add a pleasant aroma to the landscape.
- Attracts Pollinators: The blooms attract butterflies, bees, and other beneficial pollinators to the garden.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, with less frequent watering and pruning needs compared to other shrubs.
- Spring Blossoms: Offers stunning springtime blooms that provide a beautiful display of color after the winter months.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, it has good drought resistance, making it suitable for dry climates and water-conserving landscapes.
- Hardy: Demonstrates resistance to common diseases and pests, ensuring a resilient addition to the garden.
- Four-Season Interest: In addition to spring flowers, it features attractive foliage in summer, colorful autumn foliage, and a pleasing form in winter after the leaves have fallen.
- Deer Resistant: Less palatable to deer, which can help prevent browsing damage in areas where deer are a common problem.
- Educational Interest: Can be utilized in educational gardens to teach about plant growth, pollination, and seasonal changes.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Insect Repellent: The flowers of 'Miss Kim' lilac can be used to make a natural insect repellent due to their fragrance which some insects find offputting.
- Natural Dye: The flowers may be used as a source of natural dye for fabrics, giving a light green hue when processed correctly.
- Craft Material: The wood from pruned branches can be crafted into small items such as wooden jewelry or decorative objects.
- Perfumery: Extracts from 'Miss Kim' lilac flowers can be used in perfumes, providing a sweet and floral scent.
- Floral Arrangements: The blooms are long-lasting when cut, making them a popular choice for fresh flower arrangements.
- Photography Prop: With their attractive flowers, they can be used as a background or subject in botanical and garden photography.
- Culinary Garnish: Although not widely known, the blossoms can be used as an edible garnish to add color to salads and desserts.
- Bookbinding: Dried flowers can be pressed and used in the art of bookbinding, particularly for creating unique and decorative covers.
- Candle Making: The scent of the flowers can be infused into candles for a natural floral aroma.
- Wreath Making: The flexible branches and attractive foliage of the 'Miss Kim' lilac can be woven into wreaths and other decorative items.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Miss Kim Lilac is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Miss Kim Lilac is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Renewal and Fresh Starts: As a member of the lilac family, Miss Kim Lilac often symbolizes renewal and new beginnings because it is one of the early bloomers signaling the arrival of spring.
- Youthful Innocence: With its sweet, fresh fragrance and delicate blossoms, it is often associated with the innocence and purity of youth.
- Love and Passion: Lilacs in general have been long-standing symbols of love and romance, and the Miss Kim variety also carries this association, making it a popular choice in gardens and as a cut flower in romantic bouquets.
- Beauty and Pride: The beautiful appearance of the Miss Kim Lilac often leads it to be related to notions of beauty and pride, reflecting the springtime pride taken in vibrant, blooming gardens.
- Memory: Lilacs, including the Miss Kim variety, are often considered symbols of remembrance, perhaps due to their distinct, memorable scent and the nostalgic feelings they can evoke.
WaterThe Miss Kim Lilac typically needs to be watered deeply once a week with about 1 inch of water which is equivalent to approximately 0.623 gallons per square yard of soil. During the active growing season in spring and summer, especially in hot, dry conditions, the frequency may need to increase to twice per week. It is crucial to water the plant at the base and avoid wetting the foliage to prevent fungal diseases. In fall and winter, reduce watering as the plant goes dormant. Always check the soil moisture level before watering; the top inch of soil should be dry to the touch.
LightMiss Kim Lilacs thrive best in full sun, which means they should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. A spot that gets morning sunlight and some afternoon shade can also work well, particularly in regions with very hot summers. Avoid planting them in deep shade, as this will reduce flowering and can make the plant more prone to disease.
TemperatureMiss Kim Lilacs are hardy and can tolerate a range of temperatures, thriving in USDA zones 3 through 8. They can withstand winter lows down to about -40 degrees Fahrenheit, and during their active growth periods, they prefer temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive short periods of higher temperatures, but sustained heat can stress the plant.
PruningPruning Miss Kim Lilacs is best done immediately after the flowers fade in late spring or early summer. This timing allows for shaping the plant and removing any spent flowers, which encourages better bloom for the next season. Prune annually by cutting back about one-third of the oldest stems to promote air circulation and new growth. Maintenance pruning includes removing any dead, damaged, or crossing branches.
CleaningAs needed
SoilMiss Kim Lilac thrives in well-draining loam with an ideal soil pH of 6.5 to 7.0. A mix containing one-third compost, one-third garden soil, and one-third perlite or sand will ensure proper drainage and fertility for optimal growth.
RepottingMiss Kim Lilac, being a shrub, doesn't typically require frequent repotting. It should be planted in the ground or repotted only when significantly root-bound, approximately every few years or as necessary.
Humidity & MistingMiss Kim Lilac prefers average humidity levels and does not require special humidity considerations, as it's quite adaptable to typical outdoor conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Miss Kim Lilac near sunny window; ensure ample space.
Outdoor
Plant Miss Kim Lilac in full sun; well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
Miss Kim Lilac is suited for USDA zones 3-8.
Life cycleThe 'Miss Kim' lilac (Syringa pubescens subsp. patula 'Miss Kim') begins its life cycle as a dormant seed which germinates in the spring when temperatures are conducive. Upon germination, the seedling emerges and grows into a young plant, developing a woody stem and a fibrous root system. As it matures, the plant experiences vegetative growth, producing dense foliage of oval-shaped leaves every year. Once it reaches maturity, typically within a few years, it undergoes reproductive growth, flowering in late spring with fragrant, purple to lavender blossoms that attract pollinators. After pollination, the flowers produce capsules, which contain seeds that will disperse and potentially give rise to new plants. During the winter, 'Miss Kim' lilac enters a period of dormancy, conserving energy and resources until the cycle begins anew with the next growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-early summer
The most popular method of propagating the Miss Kim lilac (Syringa pubescens subsp. patula 'Miss Kim') is through softwood cuttings. This process usually takes place in late spring to early summer when the plant's new growth is still tender and flexible. To do this, a gardener would cut a 4 to 6-inch (10 to 15 cm) portion of a healthy, young branch, making sure that there are several leaf nodes present. The bottom leaves are then stripped off, and the cut end is often dipped in a rooting hormone to encourage root growth. The cutting is then planted in a pot with well-draining soil and kept moist under high humidity conditions until roots have established, which typically takes a few weeks.
