Syringa vulgaris 'Congo'

Congo Lilac features showy panicles of fragrant red flowers rising above the foliage from late spring to early summer, which emerge from distinctive dark red flower buds. The flowers are excellent for cutting. It has green deciduous foliage. The heart-shaped leaves do not develop any appreciable fall colour.

Congo Lilac will grow to be about 10 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 8 feet. It tends to be a little leggy, with a typical clearance of 2 feet from the ground, and is suitable for planting under power lines. It grows at a medium rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for approximately 30 years.

This shrub should only be grown in full sunlight. It is very adaptable to both dry and moist locations, and should do just fine under average home landscape conditions. It is not particular as to soil type or pH. It is highly tolerant of urban pollution and will even thrive in inner city environments. This is a selected variety of a species not originally from North America.