Lilacs
What are they?
These woody plants are members of the Olive family (Oleaceae), a family consisting of a great variety of trees and shrubs which are rather variable in their appearance. The lilacs and related species are deciduous, multi-stemmed shrubs or small trees with simple, entire or toothed, opposite leaves. They have showy cluster of flowers that have tubular bases and which separate into four petal lobes at the tip.
Where are they found?
Common Lilac is much loved as an ornamental for its heavily-scented, showy flowers. It is commonly grows and occasionally spreads into open ground via suckers or appears in parks, churchyards and other public spaces, where it is widely planted.
Identification
The heart-shaped leaves, large winter buds and very showy, scented flowers form a distinctive combination.
Common Lilac Syringa vulgaris
Introduced from South-east Europe as a garden ornamental and widely planted. Occasionally found planted in the wider countryside (especially in Breckland where frequently planted) or as a garden relic or throw-out. Flowers April to May. A deciduous, suckering shrub or small tree, typically to 5m in height. Leaves smooth, broadly rounded at the base. Horticultural varieties come in a range of shades of purple, lilac, pinkish and white and may bear single or double flowers.
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