Northwest Blooms · Shrubs
Syringa vulgaris 'Fred Wilke'
Fred Wilke Lilac
- Family
- Oleaceae
- Height
- 10 to 15 ft
- Width
- 8 to 12 ft
- Flower color
- Clear lavender-blue
- Foliage color
- Deciduous medium green leaves
- Bloom time
- Mid 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 'Fred Wilke' is a classic lilac selection associated with the Hulda Klager Lilac Gardens in Woodland, Washington, introduced in the early 20th century and named for Fred C. Wilke. In spring, fresh green foliage emerges on sturdy, woody branches, forming a full, leafy framework that carries the season's flower display.
Blooming in mid to late spring, it produces dense clusters of very double florets described as a clear blue-toned lavender. The florets can show tightly layered petals with a slightly twisted form, creating a plush, textured look in each truss. Flowers are notably fragrant and well suited to cutting, with the heavy double bloom making the clusters look especially full as they open.
Works well in
Sun Gardens · Foundation Plantings · Fragrant Gardens · Pollinator Gardens
Companion plants
Russian sage · Blue fescues · Coreopsis · Yarrow · Daylilies · Creeping phlox
Design tip
Use ‘Fred Wilke’s’ exceptionally full double flowers as a textural contrast to shrubs with simpler, more open spring blooms. The densely layered lavender-blue trusses create a lush focal point, while their cool coloring keeps the effect soft rather than visually heavy.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen at the Hulda Klager Lilac Gardens.
