Syringa vulgaris 'Pink Elizabeth'

Pink Elizabeth Lilac

Family: Oleaceae
Height: 10 to 15 ft
Width: 8 to 12 ft
Flower color: Soft shell pink to clear light pink, single, strongly fragrant flower clusters
Foliage color: Deciduous medium green leaves
Bloom time: Early to 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 'Pink Elizabeth' is a Hulda Klager lilac known for bright reddish-pink florets carried in full, conical trusses. Blooming early to mid-spring in many gardens, the buds deepen in color before opening and releasing a classic, sweet lilac fragrance. Fresh green, heart-shaped leaves emerge alongside the flowers and provide a clean backdrop through the season.

Developed at the Hulda Klager Lilac Gardens in Woodland, Washington, 'Pink Elizabeth' remains one of the garden's noted introductions and a dependable cut-flower lilac for spring arrangements. After flowering, the shrub's branching framework and leafy canopy keep it looking composed, making it easy to place near paths, patios, or entrances where the perfume can be appreciated.

Works well in

Sun Gardens · Foundation Plantings · Fragrant Gardens · Pollinator Gardens

Companion plants

Hebe · Flowering quince · Crocus · Matilija poppy · Mallow · Sweet William

Design tip

Highlight ‘Pink Elizabeth’s’ early bloom by pairing its soft pink flowers with fresh spring greens and emerging foliage. The simple color combination keeps attention on the lilac while giving this substantial shrub a lighter, more graceful presence in the early-season garden.

Where to see it

This plant can be seen at the Hulda Klager Lilac Gardens.