A small tree selected for its very showy coppery-orange, peeling bark and large, attractive creamy-white flower panicles. Large seed clusters remain on the tree and these capsules add interest on the winter scene. This cultivar is very winterhardy in zones 3 - 4, which should extend the range of landscape use for this species. Trees may grow 20 to 28 feet tall and are effective either single or multi-trunked. Copper Curls® is introduced in collaboration with Dr. Scott Redlin, Raleigh, NC. Reaches semi-mature height in about 18 to 20 years. Available in nursery trade. Hardiness: USDA hardiness zone 3-7
Mature Size: Height: 25'
Form (Shape): Rounded to upright spreading habit.
Growth Rate: Moderate
Foliage: Summer: Shiny medium to dark green. Autumn: Not showy.
Texture: Medium, finer texture and more open than Japanese Tree Lilac (Syringa reticulata) because of smaller stems and leaves.
Flower: Creamy-white flower panicles in late spring/early summer, 12-14 days after Common Lilac (Syringa vulgaris).
Fruit: Large tannish clusters of capsules remain on the tree, which add interest to the winter landscape.
Special Features: Extremely showy coppery-orange exfoliating (peeling, curling and flaking) bark.
Light Preferences: Full sun to part shade.
Soil Preferences: Moist well-drained soils, soil pH adaptable.
Propagation: Grafting (Piece root grafting, bark grafting), tissue culture or softwood cuttings.
Ornamental Attributes: Copper Curls® Pekin Lilac is a late blooming small tree featuring showy plumes of fragrant creamy-white flowers. It has extremely showy exfoliating coppery-orange bark, which adds significant winter interest.
Landscape Attributes: One of the most trouble-free lilacs. Good choice for attracting butterflies and possibly deer resistant. This specimen is tolerant of urban conditions. It is recommended as a boulevard, small shade or landscape specimen tree.
Comments: Copper Curls® is introduced in collaboration with Dr. Scott Redlin, Raleigh, NC. Any pruning should be done after flowering.
Patent Status: