How to Grow Bloomerang Lilac
Bloomerang Lilac
Syringa vulgaris 'Bloomerang'
shrubBloomerang Lilac is a compact, deciduous shrub that breaks the traditional lilac mold by blooming twice per season—in spring and again in summer or fall. It produces fragrant purple flowers on new growth, making it highly ornamental and long-flowering. This reblooming variety is perfect for gardeners seeking extended color and fragrance from a single plant.
When should you plant Bloomerang Lilac in your zone?
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Example Bloomerang Lilac timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Bloomerang Lilac
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Bloomerang Lilac
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Bloomerang Lilac dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-8; best performance in zones 4-7
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Get my Bloomerang Lilac timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
First 6-12 monthsYoung shrub focuses on root development; minimal flowering in first year
Water regularly during first season. Mulch around base (2-3 inches, not touching stem). Prune lightly to shape.
Spring Bloom
3-4 weeks (April-May depending on zone)Fragrant purple flowers cover branches; plant is in full bloom typically in mid-spring
Deadhead spent flowers after first bloom to encourage reblooming. Avoid heavy pruning during flowering.
Summer Growth
6-8 weeks (June-July)Plant develops new shoots and foliage after deadheading; new buds form on fresh growth
Maintain consistent moisture. Fertilize lightly with balanced fertilizer if desired. Monitor for powdery mildew in humid conditions.
Reblooming
3-4 weeks (August-September)Second flush of fragrant purple flowers appears on new growth; lighter than spring bloom but still showy
Deadhead again if desired to extend blooming. Reduce deadheading in late summer to allow seed formation (natural signal to plant to slow).
Dormancy
November-MarchLeaves yellow and drop in fall; plant enters winter rest with visible buds for next spring
Minimal care needed. Prune only for shape or diseased wood in late winter. Avoid pruning in fall.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Improve air circulation; avoid overhead watering. Spray with sulfur or neem oil at first sign. Plant in full sun and well-draining location.
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Keep tree healthy and stress-free. Remove dead/damaged wood. Wrap young trunks in early summer to prevent egg-laying. Prune out infested branches.
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Minor damage; remove affected leaves. Maintain plant vigor. Rarely requires treatment on established plants.
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Spray with strong water stream; insecticidal soap or neem oil for heavy infestations. Attract beneficial insects.
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Remove affected leaves; improve air circulation. Avoid wetting foliage. Disinfect pruning tools between cuts.
Uses
Floral Garnish & Infusions
CulinaryLilac flowers are edible and can be used as elegant garnishes for desserts, salads, and beverages. Lilac-infused simple syrup or tea provides delicate floral flavor. [source]
Cut Flowers & Fragrance
HouseholdBloomerang's twice-yearly blooming provides abundant fragrant cut flowers for indoor arrangements. The intense fragrance naturally perfumes a room. [source]
Traditional Herbal Remedy
MedicinalHistorically used in folk medicine for fever reduction and immune support. Modern herbalists use lilac flower extract for potential anti-inflammatory properties. [source]
Pollinator Habitat
WildlifeThe fragrant flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, supporting pollinator populations. Two bloom periods provide extended nectar availability. [source]
Perfumery & Aromatics
CraftLilac fragrance is prized in perfumes, colognes, and potpourri. Dried flowers retain scent for months and can be used in sachets or craft projects. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Bloomerang Lilac is ornamental; flowers are cut for fresh arrangements in spring and summer blooms. Cut flowers in early morning when stems are turgid. Remove lower leaves and split woody stem ends. Display in cool location; change water every few days. Enjoy fragrance for 1-2 weeks in a vase.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Bloomerang Lilac is a breakthrough cultivar developed through selective breeding to overcome the traditional lilac's single-season bloom habit—it was formally introduced to the market in 2008.
- 🌱 Unlike regular lilacs that flower only on old wood, Bloomerang flowers on new growth, making spring deadheading the key to triggering the summer rebloom; removing spent flowers signals the plant to regenerate and bloom again.
- 🌱 A single Bloomerang shrub can produce hundreds of fragrant flower clusters over a season, providing more blooms and fragrance than three or four traditional lilac varieties combined.
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