Syringa vulgaris ‘Beauty of Moscow’ – A Lilac with Timeless Elegance

The Syringa vulgaris ‘Beauty of Moscow’ is one of the most admired lilac cultivars, celebrated for its graceful double blooms and enchanting fragrance. In late spring, this deciduous shrub is covered in large clusters of delicate, pale pink buds that unfurl into soft, double white blossoms. The contrast between the pink-tinged buds and the pure white flowers creates a romantic and sophisticated display that lights up the garden.

With its upright growth, delightful fragrance, and hardy nature, ‘Beauty of Moscow’ is a lilac that combines ornamental beauty with ease of care. It’s a perfect choice for borders, cottage gardens, or as a standalone specimen where its elegance can shine.

General Information

Syringa vulgaris (common lilac) is native to the Balkans and has been cherished in European gardens for centuries. ‘Beauty of Moscow’, bred in Russia in the 20th century, is one of the most famous varieties thanks to its unique flowers and reliability.

• Habit: Upright, bushy deciduous shrub with strong, branching growth.

• Height & spread: Reaches 3–4m tall and 2–3m wide, making a substantial presence in the garden.

• Foliage: Large, heart-shaped green leaves provide a lush backdrop to the flowers.

• Flowers: Double blossoms with pinkish buds opening to soft, snowy white blooms.

• Flowering season: May to early June, depending on climate.

• Fragrance: Strong, sweet, classic lilac perfume.

• Position: Best in full sun for abundant blooms and strongest fragrance; tolerates light shade.

• Soil: Fertile, moist but well-drained soil is ideal; dislikes heavy, waterlogged ground.

• Hardiness: Fully hardy across the UK and Ireland.

• Uses: Excellent as a specimen shrub, in cottage-style borders, or incorporated into mixed plantings.

This lilac is especially admired for its showy double flowers, which set it apart from more common single-blooming lilac varieties.

Care Guide

Syringa vulgaris ‘Beauty of Moscow’ is easy to grow and will reward gardeners with flowers and fragrance year after year with minimal effort.

Planting

• When to plant: Best in autumn or spring when soil is workable and moist.

• Depth & spacing: Plant at the same depth as in its pot, spacing 2–3m apart for hedges or group plantings.

• Preparation: Improve soil with compost before planting; add grit if soil is heavy to improve drainage.

Watering & Feeding

• Water regularly in the first year to help establish roots.

• Once established, lilacs are fairly drought-tolerant but appreciate watering in prolonged dry spells.

• Feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser to encourage lush foliage and strong flower production.

Pruning & Maintenance

• Prune lightly just after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new shoots.

• Deadhead faded blooms to prevent seed formation and to direct energy into next year’s buds.

• Avoid cutting into old wood, as lilacs may not reshoot well.

• Every few years, rejuvenate by removing a few of the oldest stems at the base.

Protection

• Fully hardy and resilient to frost.

• May be prone to powdery mildew in late summer; improve air circulation by planting in a breezy spot.

• Generally pest-free and easy to care for.

Why Choose Syringa vulgaris ‘Beauty of Moscow’?

This exquisite lilac is the perfect blend of elegance, fragrance, and reliability.

• Unique flowers: Pink buds open to double white blooms for a romantic display.

• Fragrance: Strong, sweet scent fills the garden in late spring.

• Yearly impact: A showstopper when in flower and a reliable shrub the rest of the year.

• Wildlife-friendly: Flowers attract bees and butterflies.

• Low-maintenance: Hardy, dependable, and simple to grow.

The Syringa vulgaris ‘Beauty of Moscow’ is a lilac of true distinction, combining timeless beauty with resilience. Whether planted as a specimen shrub, part of a traditional border, or in a fragrant garden, it will bring elegance, perfume, and seasonal splendour to your outdoor space for many years to come.

• Size
  5 lt

We currently only deliver within the island of Ireland, other countries can be quoted for by contacting [email protected] or via telephone on 06964084
 

Standard Delivery is FREE on orders over €250*

All standard deliveries will be completed within 5-7 working days via Fastway Couriers, any delay to this delivery time, the customer will be notified by One of our staff.

The in-Store delivery charge will vary compared with online, in-store delivery charge is done on a case by case basis. 

* Only mainland Ireland addresses qualify for free delivery.
 

Live Plants Delivery

Our live plants are packed with care and diligence by our staff, our horticulturists review each plant before despatch to ensure quality is maintained.
Live Plant delivery charges are not calculated on weight but on the space required per package to ensure safe delivery, so delivery charges may vary as some plants require more space than others when packed.
All live plants are despatched within 3-5 working days where possible, our couriers aim to deliver within 48 hours of despatch from our Garden Centre to allow the plant to arrive in healthy condition.
 

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