Northwest Blooms · Shrubs
Syringa vulgaris 'Charles Joly'
Charles Joly Lilac
- Family
- Oleaceae
- Height
- 10 to 15 ft
- Width
- 8 to 12 ft
- Flower color
- Deep purplish-red, double, highly fragrant flower clusters
- Foliage color
- Deciduous medium green leaves
- Bloom time
- Mid to late spring
- Light
- Full sun
- Water
- Moderate
- Maintenance
- Low to 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 vulgaris 'Charles Joly' is a common lilac with fragrant, fully double blooms that open in mid to late spring. Deep wine-purple buds expand into dense panicles of reddish-purple flowers, often lasting well for cutting. Heart-shaped green leaves follow and form a leafy backdrop through summer. Fragrance is strongest on calm spring evenings.
Introduced in 1896 by the French breeder Victor Lemoine of Nancy, 'Charles Joly' remains a staple in classic lilac collections. Upright branching carries the flower clusters above the foliage, and the bloom is visited by spring pollinators. It fits well in borders, informal screens, and planting near patios or walks where the perfume can be enjoyed.
Works well in
Sun Gardens · Hedging & Privacy · Fragrant Gardens · Pollinator Gardens
Companion plants
Irises · Italian buckthorn · Sneezeweed · Fountain grass · Rock cress · Flowering quince
Design tip
Turn ‘Charles Joly’ into a dramatic spring anchor within a predominantly green planting. Its upright clusters of deep purplish-red flowers command attention from across the garden, while the surrounding green foliage keeps the rich flower color from competing with other strong hues.
