Extensive cross-breeding, however, has made these species very much alike. Even botanical experts sometimes find them difficult to identify. All lilacs belong to the genus Syringa. Common to most kinds are unlobed leaves and flowers that grow in clusters. This shrub can be as tall as 20 feet, and the flowers are fragrant and usually lilac-colored, although they can be of other hues.
Leaves are somewhat heart-shaped and smooth.
The fragrant flowers are a pale lilac color and are about half the size of those of the common lilac. The leaves are narrow on drooping branches. This plant makes a good hedge. It is somewhat taller than the Persian. The fragrant, lilac-purple flowers are about the same as common lilacs, but appear in greater profusion.