Flower Library
Lilac
Syringa vulgaris · Oleaceae
Lilac is a true seasonal cut flower — arrives in April, gone by mid-May, with some of the loveliest spring bouquets in between. Its sweet scent reminds many of a grandmother's garden.
- Season
- April – May
- Vase life
- 3–6 days
- Latin name
- Syringa vulgaris
- Colors
- White, Light purple, Purple, Deep purple, Pink
Lilac has a woody stem and needs special care to stay firm in the vase. Cross-cut the stem end — it can then draw more water.
Flower clusters are voluminous and heavy. Place centrally in a bouquet, lighter flowers around it.
Is Lilac toxic to children and pets?
- Children
- Mildly irritating
- Cats
- Mildly irritating
- Dogs
- Mildly irritating
Mildly toxic to cats and dogs. All parts contain the glycoside syringin; larger amounts can cause vomiting and stomach cramps. Keep the vase out of pets' reach.
Typical symptoms: Vomiting and stomach cramps after eating larger amounts; symptoms usually stay mild.
In an emergency:call the German poison control centre in Bonn on +49 228 19240 (24/7) — for pets, contact an emergency vet directly. This information does not replace medical or veterinary advice.
Overview: toxic & non-toxic plants for cats, dogs and children
Care
- 01Cross-cut stem ends (1–2 cm deep), do not hammer.
- 02Strip all leaves — otherwise lilac uses water for leaves instead of flowers.
- 03Change water daily.
- 04Keep cool, out of sun — significantly extends life.
Frequently asked
- When is lilac season in Germany?
- Mid-April to mid-May, depending on the spring. Dutch greenhouse varieties arrive 1–2 weeks earlier.
- How long does lilac last in a vase?
- About 3 to 6 days. The key is to strip all leaves and cross-cut the stem — otherwise lilac droops quickly.
- Is lilac toxic to cats and dogs?
- Common lilac (Syringa vulgaris) is considered mildly toxic. All parts contain the glycoside syringin. In larger amounts it can cause vomiting or stomach cramps in cats and dogs — so keep the vase out of reach of nibbling pets.
- Why is my lilac drooping?
- Usually because leaves are still on the stem: they draw water for themselves instead of the flowers. Strip all leaves, re-cut the stem crosswise and place in fresh, lukewarm water.