Syringa pubescens ‘Miss Kim’, commonly known as Miss Kim Lilac, is a compact deciduous shrub admired for its fragrant lavender to ice-blue flower clusters that bloom in late spring. Growing 4 to 9 feet tall and wide, this cultivar is known for its hardiness, compact size, and improved resistance to disease compared to common lilacs.

Miss Kim Lilac’s dense, rounded habit makes it perfect for foundation plantings, borders, or as a specimen shrub. Its flowers are intensely fragrant and attract butterflies and other pollinators, while the foliage turns a rich burgundy in fall for additional seasonal interest.

Why Choose Syringa pubescens ‘Miss Kim’?

• Fragrant, late spring blooms in lavender-blue shades
• Compact size and disease resistance make it easy to grow
• Attractive burgundy fall foliage extends seasonal interest

Cultivating Tips

• Plant in full sun and well-drained soil for the best flowering
• Prune immediately after flowering to maintain shape and encourage future blooms
• Drought-tolerant once established, with minimal maintenance needs

Design Ideas for Your Garden

• Use as a low hedge or in foundation plantings for spring color and fragrance
• Plant as a specimen shrub to create a fragrant focal point
• Combine with spring bulbs and native perennials for seasonal layers

Ecological Benefits

• Attracts butterflies and pollinators during its bloom time
• As a non-native, it offers limited ecological support for local wildlife
• Native alternatives provide greater benefits for biodiversity and pollinators

Since Syringa pubescens ‘Miss Kim’ is not a native species, here are three native alternatives available at Bumbee’s that provide ecological benefits:

• Aquilegia canadensis – Wild Columbine: Early spring blooms attract hummingbirds and pollinators
• Arctostaphylos uva ursi – Bearberry: Evergreen groundcover with flowers and berries that support birds and pollinators
• Andropogon virginicus – Broom Sedge: Native grass offering structure, food, and habitat for birds and beneficial insects