Syringa pubescens
'Full bloom'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.
Field Observations
Quick Facts
Phenological Calendar
As of May 12, 2026, Puget Sound stations range from 1882.3 to 2075 GDD₃₂. Syringa pubescens has passed 'full bloom' (1892 GDD₃₂).
Regional Season Tracker
GDD₃₂ accumulation across 7 Puget Sound stations · as of May 12, 2026| Station | GDD₃₂ | Current Stage | Next | To Go |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Issaquah / East King | 2,075 | 'Full bloom' | — | — |
| Kent / Auburn | 2,064 | 'Full bloom' | — | — |
| Seattle / UW | 2,039 | 'Full bloom' | — | — |
| Olympia / Tumwater | 2,002 | 'Full bloom' | — | — |
| Tacoma / Puyallup | 1,970 | 'Full bloom' | — | — |
| Bellingham / Whatcom | 1,946 | 'Full bloom' | — | — |
| Sequim / Rain Shadow | 1,882 | 'First bloom' | 'Full bloom' | 10 |
| Stage | GDD32 | Typical Window |
|---|---|---|
| 'Flower buds visible' BBCH '51' | — | 'Early-mid May' |
| 'First bloom' BBCH '61' | 1604 | '' |
| ● 'Full bloom' BBCH '65' NOW | 1892 | '' |
Source: 'Master catalog (OSU), GDD50 base' About GDD₃₂ →
Season tracker for Kent / Auburn as of May 12, 2026.