Syringa komarowii, commonly known as Nodding Lilac, is a deciduous shrub native to the mountainous regions and forest edges of Central China. It typically grows to a height of 6-9 feet and a width of 5-9 feet. The Nodding Lilac is characterized by its panicles of pink, purple, and white flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. The flowers are fragrant and hang in a nodding fashion, which is a distinctive feature that gives the plant its common name. The shrub’s leaves are heart-shaped, and the bark is gray-brown and somewhat textured, adding to its ornamental value.

The Nodding Lilac is valued for its fragrant flowers, which are highly attractive to pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and birds. It is an excellent choice for inclusion in mixed borders or as a specimen plant in gardens. The flowers are also suitable for cutting and arranging in bouquets. This lilac thrives in full sun and requires medium amounts of water, with well-drained soil being ideal. It is cold-hardy, making it suitable for gardens in cooler climates. While not commonly used in landscaping, Syringa komarowii is often utilized in breeding programs to develop new lilac cultivars with desirable traits. One potential issue for gardeners is that lilacs can be prone to powdery mildew, especially in humid conditions or when airflow is restricted.CC BY-SA 4.0