Common Name: Tree Lilac

General Information

Syringa reticulata is a deciduous shrub or a small tree with a rather columnar crown; it can grow from 2 - 10 metres tall, occasionally to 15 metres. The bole of old trees can reach 30 - 45cm in diameter[, ].
The plant is harvested from the wild for use as a medicine and source of an essential oil. It is often grown as an ornamental in gardens, there are many named varieties..
It is assumed that this species has a large population size given its widespread distribution along with its abundance throughout. Mapped occurrences reveal an extent large enough to surpass IUCN's criteria for a threatened category. Additionally, this species does not face any imminent threat that is known of. The plant is classified as 'Least Concern' in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species(2013)[].

Known Hazards

None known

Botanical References

, ,

Range

E. Asia - Russian Far east, China, Japan, Korea

Habitat

Mixed forests, grasslands, gullies, valleys; at elevations from 100 - 2,400 metres[]

Properties

Conservation Status	Least Concern
Medicinal Rating
Other Uses Rating
Habit	Deciduous Tree
Height	6.00 m
Pollinators	Insects
Cultivation Status	Ornamental, Wild

Cultivation Details

Syringa reticulata can experience very cold winters in its native habitat, usually with a clear distinction in seasons. In regions with mild winters, or with the variable winters of maritime climates, the plant can be excited into growth in mild periods of the winter - this new growth is then very likely to be killed back by the next cold spell[].
Prefers a sunny position[]. Grows best in a neutral to alkaline, well-drained loam[].

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal

The bark, trunk, and branches are antiphlogistic and diuretic[]. (this report refers to the subsp amurensis)

Other Uses

An essential oil obtained from the flowers is used in the preparation of various perfumes[]. (this report refers to the subsp amurensis)

Propagation

Seed - sow early spring in a north facing cold frame. Pre-treating the seed with 4 weeks warm then 3 weeks cold stratification improves germination. It is probable that sowing the seed as soon as it is ripe in a cold frame would be a more reliable method[]. Prick the seedlings out into individual pots once they are large enough to handle. Plant them out in the summer if sufficient growth has been made, otherwise grow them on in a cold frame for their first winter and plant out in late spring of the following year.
Cuttings of young shoots, 7cm with a heel, early summer in a frame[].
Cuttings of half-ripe wood, 7cm with a heel, mid summer in a frame[].
Layering in spring before new growth begins. Takes 12 months[].