Common lilac 'Michel Buchner' (Syringa vulgaris) - fragrant shrub - 17 cm pot - Height 45 cm

The Common Lilac 'Michel Buchner' (Syringa vulgaris), supplied in a 17 cm pot, is a young shrub that has already begun to develop its structure in the nursery. Depending on the planting date and growing conditions, light flowering may occur as early as the spring following purchase. To maximize the chances of flowering, avoid pruning the plant before it blooms and plant it in full sun in well-drained soil. In subsequent years, flowering will gradually intensify as the shrub grows and develops older wood.

The common lilac 'Michel Buchner' (Syringa vulgaris) is a medium-sized shrub that reaches a height of between 3 and 4 metres at maturity, with a similar spread. It has a naturally upright silhouette, with densely branched stems that give it a full and structured form. This stature makes it an excellent shrub for the back of a border, a light untrimmed hedge or a living screen. Annual growth is around 20 to 30 cm depending on soil fertility and sunlight. Regular pruning after flowering makes it easy to control its size if space is limited.

For the common lilac 'Michel Buchner' (Syringa vulgaris), full sun exposure is essential: the shrub must receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to flower abundantly. In partial shade, the plant survives but the flowering is considerably reduced and the growth becomes leggy and less dense. Avoid exposure to cold prevailing winds, which can burn the flower buds in spring. In very hot climates, a little protection in the mid-afternoon can be beneficial in summer, without compromising the flowering.

Yes, the common lilac 'Michel Buchner' (Syringa vulgaris) is a fully hardy shrub, capable of withstanding winter temperatures dropping to -20°C and below in good soil conditions. It adapts to all regions of France, from the Atlantic plains to mountainous areas. Not only does it tolerate frost, but it needs it: a prolonged period of winter cold, known as vernalization, is necessary to trigger spring flowering. Mild and short winters can thus reduce the flowering of some lilacs.

The common lilac 'Michel Buchner' (Syringa vulgaris) must be pruned immediately after flowering, in June, once the flower clusters have faded. This is when the next year's buds begin to form: late pruning in autumn or winter would remove these buds and compromise the following season's flowering. Start by removing all faded flower clusters at their base to direct the plant's energy towards the formation of new flowering shoots. You can then slightly shorten overly long shoots to densify the shape.

The common lilac 'Michel Buchner' (Syringa vulgaris) is not very demanding regarding soil type, provided that drainage is satisfactory. It thrives equally well in loose soil as in slightly clayey or calcareous soil, and prefers a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. Heavy, waterlogged soils in winter should be absolutely avoided, as they promote root rot. At planting, incorporate mature compost or universal potting mix to enrich the growing medium and improve the soil structure.

The common lilac 'Michel Buchner' (Syringa vulgaris) can be grown in a large container on a sunny terrace or balcony, provided the container is large enough: a pot of at least 50 to 60 litres is recommended to allow the roots to develop. Use a well-draining potting mix and water more regularly than when planted in the ground, as the container medium dries out more quickly. In a container, growth is naturally limited, which can be an advantage in small spaces. Apply a balanced organic fertiliser in spring to support flowering.