Lilac - Donald Wyman Preston - #5

Lilac – Donald Wyman (Preston Lilac)

Vigorous, upright, and late-blooming with beautiful lavender color and fragrance.

The Donald Wyman Lilac (Syringa × prestoniae 'Donald Wyman') is a hardy, late-blooming Preston lilac variety valued for its abundant clusters of fragrant lavender-pink flowers and upright, vase-shaped form. Blooming in early summer—after common lilacs have finished—it extends the lilac season while offering excellent resistance to common lilac diseases such as powdery mildew.

This large, fast-growing shrub makes an excellent screen, hedge, or focal point in the landscape. Its strong vertical habit, lush green foliage, and tough cold-hardiness make it especially well-suited for northern gardens, including those in prairie or urban settings.

Key Features:

• Large, upright clusters of fragrant lavender-pink blooms.
• Late-spring to early-summer blooming extends lilac season.
• Upright, vase-shaped habit—ideal for screening and structure.
• Extremely cold-hardy (Zones 2–7).
• Resistant to powdery mildew and deer.
• Great for borders, large foundations, or privacy planting.

Plant Care Instructions:

Sunlight:
Full sun (6+ hours daily) is best for maximum bloom and plant health.

Soil:
Well-drained, moderately fertile soil; prefers neutral to slightly alkaline conditions.

Watering:
Water deeply during the first growing season; drought-tolerant once established.

Hardiness Zone:
USDA Zones 2–7
Exceptionally cold-hardy, suitable for harsh Canadian climates.

Fertilizer:
Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring before new growth.

Pruning:
Prune immediately after flowering to shape and remove spent blooms; avoid heavy pruning at other times.

Maintenance:
Low-maintenance; minimal disease issues and excellent vigor.