Syringa pubescens subsp. patula 'Miss Kim’

Syringa pubescens subsp. patula ‘Miss Kim’: Cool Lavender Blooms, Burgundy Fall Finish

Syringa pubescens subsp. patula ‘Miss Kim’ is a fragrant lilac with rich purple buds that open into clusters of lavender flowers with a crisp, ice-blue tone. Bloom arrives in late spring, filling the garden with that classic lilac perfume in a shrub that stays compact and upright. Through summer, the dark green foliage looks clean and polished, then turns attractive shades of burgundy in fall for a strong seasonal finale. It is a reliable, space-friendly lilac that brings colour, scent, and structure to sunny landscapes.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 120–210 cm
• Spread: 120–210 cm
• Flower Colour: Lavender to ice-blue (from rich purple buds)
• Flowering Period: Late spring
• Foliage: Dark green, turning burgundy in fall
• Sunlight Requirements: Full sun
• Soil Requirements: Well-drained soil, adaptable in average garden conditions

Uses and Benefits: ‘Miss Kim’ is ideal for foundation plantings, sunny shrub borders, and smaller landscapes where you want real lilac fragrance without an oversized shrub. Its upright, compact habit makes it easy to tuck into layered designs, repeat along a path, or use as a near-patio feature where the scent can be enjoyed up close. The cool-toned bloom colour pairs beautifully with whites, soft pinks, and spring bulbs, while the burgundy fall foliage adds extra value when the flowering season is over.

Care Instructions: Plant in full sun for the best flowering and the strongest, densest habit. Water regularly during the first growing season, then provide moisture during extended dry spells, especially in sandy soils. Ensure good drainage and avoid sites that stay wet. Prune right after flowering if shaping is needed, removing spent blooms and thinning a few older stems at the base over time to keep the shrub vigorous. Avoid late-summer or fall pruning, since next year’s flower buds form on current growth.

History: Syringa pubescens subsp. patula, often called Manchurian lilac, is valued for fragrance and a garden-friendly scale. ‘Miss Kim’ has become a widely trusted selection thanks to its refined, cool-toned blooms, tidy habit, and attractive fall colour, making it a favourite for designers and home gardeners who want a lilac that fits more spaces.

Final Thoughts: For classic lilac scent with a cooler colour palette and a compact, well-behaved form, ‘Miss Kim’ brings a polished late-spring show and a burgundy fall encore that keeps the garden feeling lively.