Northwest Blooms · Shrubs
Syringa vulgaris 'Mrs. Bereasha'
Mrs. Bereasha Lilac
- Family
- Oleaceae
- Height
- 10 to 15 ft
- Width
- 8 to 12 ft
- Flower color
- Deep purple buds open to lavender-purple blossoms with a faint white edge
- 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 'Mrs. Berneasha' is a historic lilac selection associated with Hulda Klager's breeding work in Woodland, Washington. In mid to late spring, rounded trusses open from deeper-toned buds into densely florets that show a purple-to-lavender effect with lighter, whitish highlights through the panicle. The fragrance is classic lilac, sweet and strong.
Heart-shaped green leaves create a full, leafy backdrop through the growing season, and the plant develops a sturdy, branching framework that carries bloom clusters at the ends of shoots. The overall look is traditional and formal, suited to specimen planting, and cut-flower harvest during peak bloom.
Works well in
Sun Gardens · Hedging & Privacy · Fragrant Gardens · Pollinator Gardens
Companion plants
Gaura · Weigela · Salvia · Baptisia · Lilies · Mexican feather grass
Design tip
Showcase ‘Mrs. Bereasha’ as a specimen where its individual flower clusters can be appreciated at close range. The deep purple buds, lavender-purple blossoms, and subtle white edging create intricate color variation, making the spring display appreciated from a nearby path or garden seating area.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen at the Hulda Klager Lilac Gardens.
