7.6.20. Even eleven years after restoration, Lilac Park in St. Louis Park still surprises me. This Ivory Silk Japanese tree lilac (Syringa reticulata ssp. reticulata ‘Ivory Silk’) was in full bloom in late June.
Located on the east side of the park between the path and beehive fireplace, it stopped me right in my tracks. I so rarely see lilac trees, it really makes a statement. It was planted for the park’s restoration in 2009.
My first time seeing this cultivar led me to learn more:
- Showy, fragrant, creamy white flowers which bloom in upright panicles to 12” long in late spring to early summer (later than most other lilac species)
- Mature height: 20-30 feet, mature width: 15-25 feet
- Full sun (6 hours direct light daily)
- Hardiness Zones: Zone 3-7
- Attracts butterflies, hummingbirds, insect pollinators
That is just a win-win. I think both Graeser Park in Robbinsdale and Rock Island in St. Louis Park should feature this stunning lilac. And, my yard.
BIG THANKS to Jim Vaughan and everyone at the City of St. Louis Park for the beautiful landscaping and restoration of this historic Lilac Way park.
it gets better every year—Karen
Lilac Park, restored, Spring 2020
Lilac Park’s blooming lilacs provided solace to picnickers and wildlife during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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