Syringa x hyacinthiflora ‘Equinox Valley’

Equinox Valley Lilac

Family: Oleaceae
Height: 8 to 12 ft
Width: 6 to 10 ft
Flower color: Soft lavender to lavender-pink, fragrant flower clusters
Foliage color: Medium to dark green, broadly heart-shaped leaves
Bloom time: Early spring
Light: Full sun
Water: Moderate
Maintenance: Moderate; prune immediately after flowering to shape and remove spent clusters
Growing zone: USDA zones 3 to 7
Wildlife: Fragrant blooms attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators

About this plant

Syringa x hyacinthiflora 'Equinox Valley' is an early-blooming lilac known for full, double florets in soft lavender to lavender-blue tones. The flower clusters are richly fragrant and make generous panicles for cutting. Heart-shaped, mid-green leaves fill in after bloom and provide a leafy backdrop through the growing season.

This cultivar is associated with Equinox Valley Nursery in Manchester, Vermont, where it was re-discovered and propagated by founders Roger and Penny Preuss. Flowering typically occurs in early to mid spring, depending on climate.

Works well in

Sun Gardens · Specimen Plants · Fragrant Gardens · Pollinator Gardens

Companion plants

Lupine · Firethorn · Red valerian · Blue oat grass · Rock rose · Snow-in-summer

Design tip

Feature ‘Equinox Valley’ where its densely layered double flowers can be appreciated at close range. The soft lavender coloring and intricate florets reward a nearer view, making this lilac especially effective beside frequently traveled garden paths or gathering areas.