Dwarf Korean Lilac: a Better Lilac Bush Where Size Matters
Compact in size and mildew free.
We love dwarf Korean lilac (Syringa meyeri 'Palibin') for its compact, rounded shape and resistance to powdery mildew, two characteristics that set it apart from other lilacs. Dwarf Korean lilac fits small gardens, tight spaces and can be used as a deciduous hedge. It's also a good choice for a foundation planting, with its short stature that won't obscure most windows.
Common name: Dwarf Korean lilac, dwarf Meyer lilac, 'Palibin' lilac
Botanical name:Syringa meyeri 'Palibin'
Flowers: Dwarf Korean lilac flowers heavily in mid- to late spring, with dense clusters of tiny tubular pink flowers. The flower buds are a handsome purple, making this lilac bush attractive just before it blooms, too. As typical for lilacs, it is very fragrant. This lilac species begins blooming at a young age.
Foliage: Small, glossy dark green deciduous leaves. The leaves are much smaller than those of common lilacs (Syringa vulgaris), and while lilacs are often susceptible to powdery mildew, a foliage disease, dwarf Korean lilac is less likely to develop it. Fall foliage color is not remarkable.
Habit: This lilac is a deciduous shrub with a rounded shape. Generally it grows 4 to 5 feet tall and 5 to 7 feet wide, making it much smaller and denser than many lilacs that can grow over 15 feet tall and become gangly. Dwarf Korean lilac can also be purchased grafted to a tree trunk, in which case it tops out at about 8 feet tall.
Season: Late spring, for its flowers. Dwarf Korean lilac makes a good summer background bush when not in bloom.
Origin: Selection of a lilac species that's native to northern China and Japan.
Cultivation: Grow dwarf Korean lilac in full sun or part shade and average soil. It likes regular watering but will tolerate drought once established. Feed with a general fertilizer before new growth begins in spring. Remove spent flower heads to promote better bloom in the next year. Prune dwarf Korean lilac, if necessary, just after it flowers. Dwarf Korean lilac is hardy in USDA Zones 3–7.
Read about Bloomerang lilac, another small lilac bush.
Image credit: Under the same moon.../CC BY 2.0
