Fragrant double red-purple flowers cover Syringa vulgaris Charles Joly in dense upright panicles from late spring into early summer. Purple buds deepen the display before opening, while dark green heart-shaped leaves form a steady backdrop. The upright shrub works as a flowering hedge, a sunny border backdrop, or a specimen in a cottage garden.
Plant it in full sun and fertile, humus-rich soil that drains well. Neutral to alkaline soil suits the roots, and chalk, clay, loam, or sand can work when drainage is reliable. Water after planting, maintain even moisture while roots establish, and mulch around the base.
Prune immediately after flowering so the next season’s buds can develop. Remove faded flower heads and unwanted root suckers, and provide good air circulation to reduce common leaf and stem problems. The fragrant panicles also make useful cut flowers and attract pollinating insects.
