For five weeks every spring, colorful lilacs dominate New England gardens, with a span of hues ranging from rich reds to deep blues to festive pinks to majestic whites. Perhaps the most impressive display around can be found at the Arnold Arboretum, where more than 200 different varieties will be in full bloom during Lilac Sunday, May 14. People will be able to see as many as 500 plants, all different colors and scents and sizes.
Visitors can purchase plants, lilac T-shirts, hats, and posters, along with refreshments.
An English folk dancing group, the Morris Dancers, will perform throughout the day. You can't even grow them south of Washington D.C., so they are really tough plants that do well in New England. Seasoned gardeners will certainly enjoy the spectacle, but Bennett says even amateurs will be impressed. The flowers are so beautiful to look at, and the scent is just incredible. On Lilac Sunday, if you're walking up along the paths, you're almost overwhelmed by the perfume.