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LILAC
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Lilacs are about 30 species of flowering, deciduous shrubs that belong to the plant genus Syringa of the olive family, Oleaceae. Most species are cultivated, and their fragrant blooms range from white through shades of lilac to deep crimson.
The common lilac, S. vulgaris, is native to southeastern Europe. Introduced into western Europe in the 16th century, it reached the American colonies before the 1700s. Since that time it has been extensively used for landscaping as an ornamental throughout the temperate zones of the United States. The common lilac is a vigorous shrub that grows up to 6 m (20 ft) in height and is able to withstand harsh environmental conditions. It bears dense, pyramidal clusters of flowers in May and oblong, capsular fruit. The leaves are simple and ovate.
The Persian lilac, S. persica, another popular cultivated species, has long, tubular flowers that grow in loose clusters. It reaches heights up to 3 m (10 ft). The late lilac, S. villosa, native to China, has long, broad leaves and lilac or pinkish white flowers. A treelike lilac, S. reticulata, native to Japan, bears yellowish white flowers.
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