Species

Syringa x villosaLate Lilac

shrub

Josee lilac

Syringa x villosa 'Josee'

$24.99

The Story

Plant Bio

A compact lilac with lush green foliage and a profusion of pink flowers.

Blooms on both old and new wood, allowing for more abundant flowering.

Uses & Benefits:

A highly fragrant shrub that attracts pollinators, perfect for hedges and borders.

Provides natural privacy and scent, reducing the need for artificial fragrances.

Supports bees and butterflies, enhancing garden biodiversity.

SpeciesSyringa x villosaLate Lilac

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

60 inches

Width

66 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

20+ years

Native To

Hybrid origin (parent species from Asia)

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Mid-spring – Early summer

In flower about 3 months of the year

Marketplace

Where to Buy

Spring Hill Nursery

Bareroot

In Stock$24.99

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Select a sunny or partially shaded site with well-draining soil.
Tuck bare-root plants into soil at the same depth as in the nursery, water thoroughly.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote rooting.
Transplant seedlings or rooted cuttings into their permanent location after the last frost.
Mulch around the base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer for vigorous growth.

Pro Tip

Prune immediately after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during dry spells 💧
Prune after flowering to shape the shrub ✂️
Apply mulch to retain soil moisture 🌱
Feed with a balanced fertilizer annually
Monitor for pests and diseases

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don’t prune in late fall or winter ❌
Never ignore signs of pests or disease
Avoid planting in poorly drained soil
Don’t fertilize during dormancy

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Fertilize
Mulch
Plant
Prune
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Fragrant hedge along pathwaysScented border for flower bedsDecorative shrub in mixed borders

Companion Plants

Lavender Roses SalviaCatmint Peony

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Josee lilac questions

What zones can Josee lilac grow in?

Josee lilac is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Josee lilac deer resistant?

Yes — Josee lilac is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Josee lilac bloom?

Josee lilac typically blooms in mid-spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Josee lilac need full sun?

Josee lilac does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Josee lilac drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Josee lilac handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.