Common Lilac grow to a heights ranging from 8 to 18 feet, and equally wide, depending on cultivar. The dark green leaves are roundish, oval and pointed. In the spring, clusters of fragrant flowers are borne. The plant requires full sun for proper growth. Lilacs are available in a range of colors in the whites, pinks, mauves, violets, and purples. Once established, lilacs are tough shrubs and make great backgrounds.
Grow in well drained soil in full sun. Tolerates a range of soil types, but best growth occurs in sandy-loam or clay-loam soils. Lilacs sometimes don't bloom, and it is usually because it was pruned too early or too late in the season, or it's getting too much nitrogen fertilizer. Lilacs bloom on old wood, so prune immediately after bloom, as buds for the following year begin to set practically as the flowers fade. For tips on pruning, see Guides.