Syringa vul. Red Pixie

Syringa vulgaris Red Pixie

Why Buy Me?

• Slow growing
• Fragrant flowers

Growing Conditions

Light:
Full sun. Requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily to bloom profusely. While it tolerates some light shade, flower production may be significantly reduced.

Soil:
Well-drained, moderately fertile soil. Prefers slightly alkaline to neutral pH but is adaptable to various soil types, including loam, sandy, or clay-based soils, as long as drainage is good.

Exposure:
Suitable for both sheltered and exposed locations. Hardy and reliable in cold climates. Protect flower buds from late spring frosts in colder areas to avoid damage.

Drought Tolerance:
Moderate. Tolerates dry conditions once established but benefits from regular watering, particularly during prolonged hot or dry weather.

Cultivation & Care

Planting Time:
Plant in early spring or early autumn when temperatures are cool and soil moisture is adequate.

Spacing:
Space 90–120 cm (3–4 feet) apart. 'Red Pixie' is compact and ideal for smaller garden spaces, reaching about 1.2–1.5 m (4–5 ft) in height and spread.

Watering & Fertilization:
Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a strong root system. Once established, water during dry spells. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to support healthy foliage and blooms.

Mulching & Pruning:
Mulch annually with compost or bark to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Prune after flowering to remove spent blooms and shape the shrub. Light pruning helps maintain a tidy appearance; avoid hard pruning as it may reduce next year’s blooms.

Propagation:
Propagate by softwood cuttings in late spring or early summer. Can also be layered or propagated by division of rooted suckers.

Seasonal Interest

Spring:
Abundant, deep pink to reddish-pink, fragrant flower panicles appear in late spring to early summer. One of the few lilacs with strong red-pink tones. Provides a long-lasting, colorful floral display.

Summer:
Attractive, mid-green foliage maintains a tidy, compact form throughout summer. Occasional light reblooming may occur in late summer under ideal conditions.

Autumn:
Foliage remains fresh late into the season. Leaves turn yellow before falling in colder regions.

Winter:
Deciduous. Loses its leaves but retains a neat, rounded structure that offers light winter interest. Can be pruned during dormancy to maintain shape.

Wildlife & Garden Use

Wildlife:
Highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Flowers are rich in nectar and fragrance. Dense growth provides shelter for small birds and insects.

Garden Use:
Perfect for small gardens, urban spaces, containers (with adequate drainage), mixed borders, and low hedging. Ideal near patios, windows, or paths where the fragrance can be enjoyed up close.

Companion Plants:
Pairs beautifully with other spring bloomers such as Peonies, Salvia, Nepeta, Geranium, Heuchera, and Phlox. Its vibrant reddish-pink blooms contrast well with pale lilacs or blues, adding a warm accent to pastel-themed gardens.

Don’t miss out on the exceptional quality of the Syringa vulgaris Red Pixie .It’s just a few clicks away when you order online, or you can stop by your nearest Thompson's Branch to pick one up and chat with our knowledgeable team.