Syringa pubescens
Syringa pubescens
Oleaceae · broadleaf deciduous shrub · introduced
Last updated
Syringa pubescens is a deciduous shrub native to northern China, reaching 6-12 feet tall with small, narrow leaves and panicles of fragrant, pale pink to lilac flowers appearing in late spring. The plant is more refined and less coarse than common lilac.
This species is hardy to zones 3-7 and thrives in full sun to light shade with well-drained soil. It is less susceptible to mildew and scale than common lilac and requires minimal maintenance. The late bloom time extends the lilac season in the garden.
Quick Facts
Phenological Calendar
As of April 22, 2026, Puget Sound stations range from 1414.6 to 1573.3 GDD₃₂. Syringa pubescens typically reaches 'first bloom' at 1604 GDD₃₂, predicted around Apr 26.
Regional Season Tracker
GDD₃₂ accumulation across 7 Puget Sound stations · as of Apr 22, 2026| Station | GDD₃₂ | Current Stage | Next | To Go |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Issaquah / East King | 1,573 | Pre-season | 'First bloom' | 31 |
| Seattle / UW | 1,535 | Pre-season | 'First bloom' | 69 |
| Kent / Auburn | 1,517 | Pre-season | 'First bloom' | 87 |
| Olympia / Tumwater | 1,487 | Pre-season | 'First bloom' | 117 |
| Bellingham / Whatcom | 1,462 | Pre-season | 'First bloom' | 142 |
| Tacoma / Puyallup | 1,453 | Pre-season | 'First bloom' | 151 |
| Sequim / Rain Shadow | 1,415 | Pre-season | 'First bloom' | 189 |
| Stage | GDD32 | Typical Window |
|---|---|---|
| ○ 'First bloom' BBCH '61' NEXT | 1604 | '' est. Apr 26 (forecast) |
| 'Full bloom' BBCH '65' | 1892 | '' est. May 8 (forecast) |
GDD = Growing Degree Days (base 32°F, Jan 1 start). Why base 32? Hover over GDD values for source details. Season tracker for Kent / Auburn as of Apr 22, 2026. Predicted dates use 16-day weather forecast through May 8, 2026, then climate normals.