Villosa Lilac, aka Late Lilac, is a relatively large and cold hardy shrub with excellent privacy and wind protection as well as fragrant flowers.
Its mauve flowers grow in clusters at the end of its branches during mid to late summer and fade to a light pink as it matures. Villosa Lilac grows quickly and is very drought resistant, making it most suitable for the outer row of a shelterbelt. Its roots are non-suckering and it does not compete with nearby crops which makes it a lower maintenance hedge.
This species is also known as one of the more salt-tolerant species for those with saline soils.
The dense growth habit of the Villosa is well suited for providing both wind and snow protection. It provides habitat for birds and small mammals. Lilac species are rated excellent for pollen availability too. The attractive whitish, lavender blooms add beauty to wherever it is planted.
Many people alternate villosa and common purple lilacs to create the impression that the hedge is in flower for almost a full month.
Zone: 2a Height: 5 m (16 ft) Spread: 3 m (10 ft) Moisture: dry, normal Light: full sun Flowers: fragrant purple clusters Growth rate: medium Life span: medium Maintenance: low Suckering: low Pollution tolerance: high
In row spacing: 0.9 m (3 ft) Between row spacing: 5 m (16 ft)
