Bloomerang® Purple Lilac

Choosing plants and flowers for your garden whether it is a nice new one, a remodeling of an old one or a well-established display, can be both a labor and a joy. There are so many wonderful examples to tempt your fancy from the really very small to the quite enormous. Flowering shrubs act as wonderful ways to add depth and texture to a border or bed, or a way to break up spaces without interfering with your viewing pleasure of the rest of the landscape.

Lilacs have long been used for these purposes and are almost unmatched when it comes to the delightful perfume that comes with the flowers. The Bloomerang is so named as you will see a return to flower in July, after a period of rest and recuperation following the first flowers in spring. These are small and manageable shrubs that are easy to care for and resistant to many of the things that cause heartache with other varieties.

Bloomerang first appeared as a limited release from Better Homes and Gardens in 2009 and the initial expectations were the sale of around one thousand plants, so imagine the surprise when more than 11,000 were sold and dispirited, downhearted lilac hunters were sent home frustrated and empty handed. This variety was first bred by Tim Wood at Proven Winners and is the result of a real labor of love, trying to create a twice flowering lilac that was worthy of the hype, but many would say that the final result was more than worth the effort.

Growing Bloomerang Purple Lilac Bushes

The Bloomerang is considered a dwarf plant, growing to around 4 feet high and around 4 feet wide. Its compact size lends itself to smaller spaces that other lilacs could not be considered. When not in flower the foliage is very attractive with dark purplish stems and deep green leaves lightly indented either-side of the vein; highly compact, it is a welcome addition to any garden as is.

Appearance

What makes it particularly spectacular is the explosion of tiny purple and lavender flowers that simply smother this little shrub in spring, each delicate tubular body ending with 4 splayed petals and releasing that iconic aroma into the air about you; honey sweet and utterly beautiful. These flowers die away at the start of summer and throughout the hottest part of summer it takes a well-deserved break, before bursting back into flower as the temperature cools. This second round will last till the first frosts of autumn so you have the potential of four months of wonderful lilac flowers rather than those that just appear in spring.

Planting and Initial Care

These really are quite easy to care for, so much so that it almost feels like cheating when you are rewarded so richly. It is best that you choose a moist site with well-drained and rich soil that is slightly alkaline or slightly acidic. A position that allows good airflow is ideal and it will grow well in both full sun and partial shade, flourishing best in full sun however, and a position that takes this into account will see the very best show.

When planting out it is important that the hole depth does not exceed the depth of the soil level in the plotted plant. If anything, it can be left sitting slightly higher than the level of earth around it when planted if the drainage offered is not sufficient. You can mulch the newly planted lilac but ensure that it is not in contact with the base of the plant and does not exceed 3 inches in depth. Be sure to water well when first planted out and during the first season it is important to keep the soil moist, but once established it will require less watering.

Care and Maintenance

This is a fast growing plant – do not be afraid of pruning in order to gain the shape that you desire. The second round of flowering occurs on both new and old growth, but in order to maximize this you can remove the spring flowers as soon as they have finished, Tim Wood refers to this as a ‘hair cut’, and once the desired shape has been attained there is no need to prune for this purpose – the second bloom will appear no matter what you do.

Adding Bloomerang Purple Lilacs to Your Garden

When it comes to lilacs there is a lot of choice and there are some rebloomers out there already, but nothing on the scale of Bloomerang. Some may like the special and brief display that lilacs bring but for many of us, the chance to see that display again and for even longer is just too good to miss. Completely and utterly fabulous! If you are considering this plant, we encourage you to check out similar plants that we carry, like the Lavender Lady Lilac and the Miss Kim Lilac.

What are the best companion plants for the Bloomerang Purple Lilac?

The Bloomerang Purple Lilac is a versatile plant that pairs well with a variety of companion plants. Given its rich purple flowers, it can create a stunning contrast with plants that have yellow or white blooms. Consider pairing it with plants like the Moonbeam Coreopsis or the Snowmound Spirea. Since it thrives in full sun, it would also do well with other sun-loving plants such as the Russian Sage or the Butterfly Bush. Its preference for slightly alkaline or slightly acidic soil makes it a good match with plants that have similar soil requirements, like the Hydrangea or the Azalea. Given its fast growth, it can provide a nice backdrop for slower growing plants, adding depth and texture to your garden.

How can I encourage a second bloom in my Bloomerang Purple Lilac?

To encourage a second bloom in your Bloomerang Purple Lilac, you can follow a few simple steps. First, ensure that the plant is getting enough sunlight, as it thrives in full sun. After the spring bloom, consider giving the plant a ‘hair cut’ by pruning it. This helps to stimulate new growth, which can lead to a more abundant second bloom. However, be careful not to over-prune, as this can stress the plant and potentially reduce the second bloom. Also, ensure that the plant is well-watered and the soil is kept moist, especially during the hot summer months. With these steps, you should be able to enjoy a beautiful second bloom from your Bloomerang Purple Lilac.

What pests or diseases should I watch out for with the Bloomerang Purple Lilac?

While the Bloomerang Purple Lilac is a relatively hardy plant, it can still be susceptible to certain pests and diseases. Common pests include aphids and scales, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Powdery mildew is a common disease that can affect lilacs, causing a white, powdery coating on the leaves. This can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering. If your lilac does get powdery mildew, fungicides can be used to control it. Also, watch out for bacterial blight, which can cause wilting and blackening of shoots. This can be prevented by avoiding overhead watering and pruning infected shoots.

Can the Bloomerang Purple Lilac be grown in a container?

Yes, the Bloomerang Purple Lilac can be grown in a container. Given its compact size, it is well-suited to container gardening. Choose a container that is at least twice the width and depth of the root ball of the plant. Ensure the container has adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. Use a good quality potting mix that is slightly alkaline or slightly acidic, as the plant prefers. Place the container in a location that receives full sun. Remember to water the plant regularly, as container plants can dry out faster than those in the ground. Also, consider applying a slow-release fertilizer in the spring to provide the necessary nutrients for growth and blooming.

How can I propagate the Bloomerang Purple Lilac?

The Bloomerang Purple Lilac can be propagated through stem cuttings. Choose a healthy, vigorous stem and cut a 4-6 inch section, ideally in the early morning when the plant is well-hydrated. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a pot filled with a mix of peat moss and perlite, ensuring the leafless part of the stem is buried. Cover the pot with a plastic bag to create a mini greenhouse and place it in a location with indirect light. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. In a few weeks, the cutting should develop roots and can be transplanted to a larger pot or the garden.

What is the history and origin of the Bloomerang Purple Lilac?

The Bloomerang Purple Lilac has a fascinating history. It was first bred by Tim Wood at Proven Winners, a leading plant brand in North America. The goal was to create a lilac that would bloom twice in a year, a feature that was not common among traditional lilacs. After much effort and experimentation, the Bloomerang Purple Lilac was born. It was first introduced to the public as a limited edition by Better Homes and Gardens in 2009. The initial expectation was to sell around a thousand plants, but the lilac exceeded all expectations and sold more than 11,000 plants. Since then, it has become a popular choice among gardeners for its unique re-blooming characteristic and compact size.

How can I use the Bloomerang Purple Lilac in landscape design?

The Bloomerang Purple Lilac is a versatile plant that can be used in various ways in landscape design. Its compact size makes it an excellent choice for small gardens, borders, and containers. Its rich purple flowers and re-blooming characteristic make it a standout feature in any garden. It can be used as a specimen plant, drawing attention with its vibrant blooms. It can also be used in mass planting, creating a sea of purple in your garden. Given its size, it can also be used as a low hedge or screen. Its re-blooming characteristic ensures that your garden remains vibrant from spring to fall.

What is the lifespan of the Bloomerang Purple Lilac?

The Bloomerang Purple Lilac is a relatively long-lived plant. With proper care and under ideal conditions, it can live for many years. Factors that can influence its lifespan include the quality of care it receives, the conditions in which it is grown, and its resistance to pests and diseases. Regular watering, proper fertilization, and timely pruning can help ensure its health and longevity. It is also important to plant it in a location that meets its light and soil requirements. While it is a fast-growing plant, it can take a few years to reach its mature size and start blooming profusely.

What is the symbolism or meaning associated with the Bloomerang Purple Lilac?

Lilacs in general have been associated with various meanings and symbolism in different cultures. They are often associated with love and romance, and are commonly given as a gift to express feelings of love. The purple color of the Bloomerang Lilac could be associated with royalty, nobility, and luxury. The fact that it blooms twice a year could symbolize renewal or rebirth. However, it’s important to note that the specific symbolism or meaning can vary depending on the cultural context.

What is the scent of the Bloomerang Purple Lilac like?

The Bloomerang Purple Lilac is renowned for its delightful fragrance. The scent is often described as sweet and floral, with a hint of spice. It is strong enough to fill the air, especially during its blooming periods in May and again in summer and fall. The fragrance is one of the reasons why lilacs are so beloved and why they are often used in perfumes and scented products. The scent can attract pollinators to your garden, and it can also make your outdoor space a more enjoyable place to relax and spend time.