Lilacs for Iowa Gardens Horticulture Lilacs for Iowa Gardens Lilacs are one of the most cherished and adored of all flowering shrubs. They are noted for their beautiful blossoms and fragrance. Lilacs are available in a wide range of colors. Flowers are also available in single and double forms.
Several species are notable garden additions.
For early blooms, try one of the Syringa hyacinthflora cultivars listed below. The Common Lilacs or French Hybrid Lilacs are most noted for their bloom size and fragrance. There are thousands of cultivars available, some dating back to the late 1800's. These became known as French Hybrids due to the work of Victor Lemoine, a French hybridizer, who bred about 200 different lilacs in the 1870's. For later blossoms, try one of the Preston Lilacs.