Yes, where there is room for a tree about 20 to 30 feet tall and 15 to 25 feet wide, in a spot with full sun. It is the only lilac that regularly grows as a small tree rather than a shrub, and it carries large clusters of fragrant, creamy white flowers.

Why does the Japanese tree lilac work in smaller yards?

Because its size stays modest and it handles tough sites. It grows at a moderate rate, tolerates dry ground, road salt, and drought once established, and the Morton Arboretum lists restricted sites and city parkways among its planting sites.

How much space and sun does a Japanese tree lilac need?

A spread of 15 to 25 feet and at least 6 hours of direct sun each day. It grows best in moist, well drained soil, and cultivars such as 'Ivory Silk', at about 20 to 25 feet tall, stay toward the shorter end of the species' height.

What problems can a Japanese tree lilac develop?

Bacterial blight and leaf spots are possible, though the tree shows good resistance to powdery mildew, scale insects, and borers.

Once cercospora leaf spot, a fungal disease that marks lilac leaves with spots, first appears, treatment with Liquid Copper Fungicide Spray begins from a hose end or pressurized hand sprayer and repeats every 7 to 14 days as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Japanese tree lilac bloom with shrub lilacs?

No. It blooms a little later, from late spring into early summer.

Can a Japanese tree lilac be grown from seed?

Yes, with patience. A packet of Japanese Tree Lilac Seeds holds 40 hand sorted seeds, which are soaked for 24 hours, then held 60 days warm and 60 days cold before sowing 1/16 inch deep.

Will it grow in alkaline soil?

Usually. The Morton Arboretum lists alkaline soil among its tolerances, though TreeHelp's seed page describes a preference for neutral to acidic soil.

What does its bark look like?

Reddish brown and cherry like, marked with elongated lenticels, the small raised pores on the bark surface.