Littleleaf Lilac Syringa pubescens subsp. microphylla 'Superba'
ABOUT
The plant commonly known as Littleleaf Lilac 'Superba' is characterized by its delicate and slightly smaller foliage compared to other lilac varieties. The leaves are heart-shaped with a lush green color that provides a dense, leafy backdrop for the blooms. In the spring to early summer, this plant features an abundance of aromatic flowers. The blossoms are tightly clustered, forming cone-shaped panicles of a pinkish lavender color, which emits a sweet and classic lilac fragrance that perfumes the air around it. The flowers are known for their ability to attract butterflies and other pollinators, adding to the visual appeal of the plant. Despite the omission of size-related terms, it is important to note that the overall form of the Littleleaf Lilac 'Superba' is well-proportioned, with a natural grace that makes it a favorite among garden enthusiasts seeking a plant with ornamental flowers and attractive foliage. The branching structure is somewhat rounded, giving the plant a full and healthy appearance throughout the growing season.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Littleleaf Lilac, Superba Littleleaf Lilac.
Common names
Syringa microphylla 'Superba', Syringa pubescens var. microphylla 'Superba'.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as Littleleaf Lilac (Syringa pubescens subsp. microphylla 'Superba') is generally not considered highly toxic to humans. However, like many plants, parts of it can contain compounds that may cause discomfort if ingested. If large quantities of the plant, particularly the leaves or stems, are consumed, they could potentially cause gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. These symptoms are typically the result of the body's reaction to unfamiliar compounds present in the plant material. Contact your local poison control center or seek medical attention if ingestion occurs and symptoms are severe.
To pets
Littleleaf Lilac is not known to be highly toxic to pets. While the ingestion of plant parts like leaves and stems could potentially lead to mild gastrointestinal upset in pets, such as vomiting or diarrhea, severe poisoning is unlikely. However, it is always best to prevent pets from consuming plants, as individual animals may react differently and some may have more sensitive systems. If you notice your pet consuming Littleleaf Lilac and then exhibiting signs of distress, it is advisable to contact a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters)
Spread
5-7 feet (1.5-2.1 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
China
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Adds ornamental beauty with its dense clusters of fragrant lilac-pink flowers.
- Attracts Pollinators: Flowers are attractive to butterflies, bees, and other beneficial insects.
- Seasonal Interest: Offers spring to early summer blooms, adding seasonal color variation to the garden.
- Compact Growth: Dwarf Lilac variety ideal for small gardens or spaces with limited room.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, making it suitable for beginner gardeners.
- Disease Resistance: Generally resistant to common diseases that affect larger lilac varieties.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, has a good tolerance for dry conditions, requiring less frequent watering.
- Deer Resistant: Less likely to be damaged by deer, which can be a problem with other garden plants.
- Versatility: Can be used in a variety of landscape applications, including hedges, borders, or as a focal point.
- Cold Hardy: Capable of surviving and thriving in cooler climates withstanding winter temperatures.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Lilac 'Superba' twigs and bark can be used for making dyes, particularly in shades of green and brown, depending on the mordants used.
- The wood from Lilac 'Superba' is hard and can be used for carving small objects such as knife handles or wooden jewelry.
- Due to its dense foliage, Lilac 'Superba' can be planted as a privacy hedge to create a natural boundary in gardens.
- The plant's flowers can be infused to create flavorful and aromatic syrups for use in desserts, cocktails, or flavored waters.
- Dried Lilac 'Superba' flowers can be incorporated into homemade potpourri mixtures, providing a long-lasting fragrance.
- Fiber from Lilac 'Superba' branches may be used in paper-making for a unique textured paper, especially for artistic purposes.
- With careful training and pruning, Lilac 'Superba' can be cultivated into a bonsai for enthusiasts of this Japanese art form.
- The flowers of the Lilac 'Superba' can be used as a natural pH indicator, turning different colors depending on the acidity or alkalinity of a solution.
- Bees are attracted to Lilac 'Superba' flowers, making it useful in beekeeping for honey production that will have a light lilac scent.
- Lilac 'Superba' can be used in landscaping to stabilize slopes and prevent soil erosion because of its root system that spreads horizontally.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant commonly known as 'Littleleaf Lilac' is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Littleleaf Lilac is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- First Love: This plant is commonly known as Littleleaf Lilac. In floral language, lilacs often symbolize first love or young innocence, and the delicate nature of the Littleleaf Lilac could reinforce this symbolism.
- Youthful Memories: The Littleleaf Lilac's small, nostalgic flowers may evoke memories of youth or remind one of a time that was innocent and carefree.
- Renewal: As lilacs typically bloom in spring, they are symbols of renewal and the rebirth that comes with this season.
- Beauty: The Littleleaf Lilac, with its beautiful clusters of flowers, is often used to symbolize beauty or admiration of someone's beauty.
- Spirituality: In some cultures, lilacs are associated with spirituality and may be used to represent faith or the blessings of the divine.
WaterThe Dwarf Korean Lilac (Syringa pubescens subsp. microphylla 'Superba') should be watered thoroughly, ensuring that the soil is moist but not soggy. Water the plant deeply once a week, providing about 1 to 1.5 gallons per watering session. During periods of extreme heat or drought, increase the frequency to twice a week, monitoring the soil moisture regularly. In the cooler months or rainy seasons, reduce the frequency to as needed to prevent waterlogging. Always check the top few inches of soil for dryness before watering again.
LightThe Dwarf Korean Lilac prefers full sun conditions to thrive, meaning it requires at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. The best spot for this plant is an area that is exposed to unfiltered sunlight for most of the day. Partial shade is tolerated, but too much shade can result in fewer blooms and a less vigorous plant.
TemperatureDwarf Korean Lilacs are hardy and can withstand a wide range of temperatures, but they prefer a temperate climate. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 60°F and 75°F. They can survive temperatures as low as -30°F and as high as 95°F, but prolonged exposure to extremes can be harmful.
PruningPruning the Dwarf Korean Lilac is essential to maintain its shape, encourage blooms, and remove dead or diseased branches. Prune right after the flowering period ends to prevent cutting off next year's buds. Lightly shape the plant and thin out any overcrowded branches annually. It is best to avoid heavy pruning unless the plant is overgrown or damaged.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDwarf Korean Lilac thrives in well-drained, loamy soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. A blend of two-thirds garden soil and one-third compost or well-rotted manure is ideal, providing good nutrients and drainage.
RepottingDwarf Korean Lilac should generally be repotted every 3-4 years to prevent root bounding and to refresh the soil, ensuring healthy growth and abundant flowering.
Humidity & MistingDwarf Korean Lilac prefers moderate humidity levels but is quite adaptable. Normal outdoor humidity is typically sufficient, without the need for additional measures.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light and keep in cool conditions.
Outdoor
Full sun, well-drained soil, mulch roots, water regularly.
Hardiness zone
4-7 USDA
Life cycleThe Littleleaf Lilac 'Superba' starts its life cycle as a dormant seed, which with sufficient stratification, will germinate in the spring. Once germination occurs, the seedling emerges and establishes a root system and foliage through the vegetative growth stage. Over subsequent years, the plant matures into a small, deciduous shrub reaching maturity when it begins to produce the characteristic fragrant, lilac-colored flowers, typically in late spring. After flowering, the plant enters a period of fruiting, developing brown, dehiscent capsules that release seeds to complete the reproductive cycle. During the fall, the Littleleaf Lilac prepares for dormancy by shedding its leaves and entering a period of rest over winter. This cycle repeats annually, with the lilac's growth and development influenced by environmental factors such as climate, soil conditions, and available moisture.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-summer
The Dwarf Korean Lilac (Syringa pubescens subsp. microphylla 'Superba') is most commonly propagated by softwood cuttings, a method that typically takes place in late spring to early summer. To propagate by cuttings, select healthy, non-flowering shoots that have new growth. Cut a length of 4 to 6 inches from the shoot, making sure at least two nodes are included. The bottom cut should be made just below a node, and the leaves on the lower half of the cutting should be removed. To encourage rooting, dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder. Plant the cutting in a pot with a mix of peat and perlite or sand, ensuring that at least one node is below the soil surface. The pot can be covered with a plastic bag to retain humidity and placed in indirect light. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Roots typically develop within 4 to 8 weeks, after which the new lilac plants can be transplanted outdoors.
