Botanical profile

Syringa vulgaris 'Congo'

Latin name
Syringa vulgaris 'Congo'
Common name
Common Lilac 'Congo'
Type
Shrub
Family
Oleaceae

Syringa vulgaris ‘Congo’ is a common lilac remarkable for its intense purplish-red blooms and pronounced fragrance. This deciduous shrub develops an upright, structured habit, taller than wide, ideal for flowering hedges, borders, and as a specimen plant. In spring, large, single panicles with dark red buds open into deep reddish-purple flowers, creating a powerful visual impact in the garden. Its medium green, heart-shaped foliage provides good summer density and highlights the contrasting bloom. Very hardy and long-lasting, Syringa vulgaris ‘Congo’ prefers well-drained soil and a sunny exposure to ensure abundant and sustained flowering. It is an excellent choice for bringing fragrance, rich color, and character to northern landscape designs.

Care guide

Growing conditions

Light, soil, water and hardiness

Hardiness zone
Zone 3
Exposure
Sun
Watering
Moderate watering
Fertilization
Slow-release fertilizer 14-7-14 or 4-2-8. Fertilize monthly or as directed on the bag. Add Myke at planting.
Soil type
Neutral to slightly alkaline, well drained
Minimum temperature
'-40°C
Plant appearance

Blooming, foliage and shape

Blooming period
Spring
Flower color
Purple
Fruiting
Few brown capsules.
Foliage color
Green
Foliage type
Obsolete
Shape
Shrubby
Garden structure

Size and growth

Height
3 to 4 m (10 to 13 feet)
Width
2.5 m (8 feet)
Growth rate
average
Pet friendly
Safe for pets

Pets

Pollinators
Attracts or supports pollinating insects

Pollinators

Butterflies
Plants that attract butterflies

Butterflies

Deer
Less attractive or generally tolerated by deer

Deer

The availability of our plants varies depending on arrivals, seasons, nursery production and supplier availability. Some varieties may be offered for a limited time only, depending on their natural cycle or current stock. These plant profiles are designed to guide and inspire you when choosing plants for the garden, landscaping projects, containers or long-lasting outdoor arrangements.