Ludwig-spaeth-lilac - Grasshopper Gardens

Ludwig Spaeth Lilac

Rich, deep purple blooms: One of the darkest and most striking lilac flower colors available
Strong, classic fragrance: Fills the garden with the beloved scent of traditional lilacs
Cold hardy and reliable: Performs exceptionally well in colder climates
Large, stately shrub: Ideal for creating privacy screens or focal points
Long-lived plant: Provides decades of seasonal beauty with proper care

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#3 Container

$52.00

12 in stock

#5 Container

$86.00

15 in stock

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Starting at $52.00

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Our local delivery area reaches as far north as Schroon Lake, south to Voorheesville, Glenmont, and East Greenbush areas, parts of Fulton and Montgomery counties, much of Washington County, and all areas in between. If you have questions on local delivery, give us a call at

518-793-9623.
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Ludwig Spaeth Lilac

Sunlight
Can grow in a range from full sun to partial shade. They need at least six hours of direct, unfiltered sunlight per day.
Watering
Regular watering schedule for the first six months. Once established, rainwater should be sufficient.
Fertilizing
Should not need any extra fertilizer unless your entire lawn and garden have problems and needs regular fertilizing.

Ludwig Spaeth Lilac

A classic heirloom lilac known for its deep, rich purple blooms and strong fragrance, Ludwig Spaeth Lilac is a standout in spring landscapes. This vigorous, long-lived shrub delivers bold color, structure, and a traditional lilac scent that defines the season.

General Information:

Botanical Name: Syringa vulgaris ‘Andenken an Ludwig Spaeth’
Plant Type: Deciduous flowering shrub
Mature Height: 10–15 feet
Mature Spread: 6–10 feet
Growth Rate: Moderate
USDA Hardiness Zones: 3–7
Sun Exposure: Full sun
Flowering and Flower Color: Late spring; large clusters of deep purple to wine-colored flowers with strong fragrance

Geographic Guidance:

Thrives in cooler temperate regions, particularly across the Northeast, Midwest, and northern USDA zones, where winter chill promotes strong flowering.

Why Choose This Plant?

A top choice for gardeners who want classic lilac beauty with bold color and fragrance.

Rich, deep purple blooms: One of the darkest and most striking lilac flower colors available
Strong, classic fragrance: Fills the garden with the beloved scent of traditional lilacs
Cold hardy and reliable: Performs exceptionally well in colder climates
Large, stately shrub: Ideal for creating privacy screens or focal points
Long-lived plant: Provides decades of seasonal beauty with proper care

Complete Care & Growing Guide

Light Requirements
Requires full sun (at least 6–8 hours daily) to ensure abundant flowering and healthy growth.

Soil
Prefers well-drained, moderately fertile soil. Slightly alkaline to neutral soil is ideal.

Watering
Water consistently during establishment. Once mature, it is moderately drought tolerant but benefits from occasional deep watering in dry periods.

Planting & Care

1. Planting: This is a large landscape tree and as such, requires a bit of planning before planting. First, measure the area where you would like to plant your hedge or row. You will need the length of the area of planting to estimate the number of trees you need.

When planting, dig a hole for each tree that is three times as wide as the root ball but just as deep. Place the tree, fill in around the tree with the same soil you took out when initially digging the hole. Finally, tamp down as you fill to cut back on any air pockets from forming, water the tree, then mulch to conserve moisture.

2. Watering: For the first two weeks, water your new tree every other day by holding a hose around it and counting to 20. If you don’t have a hose, 2 large watering cans full of water will do (smaller trees may only need a light soaking so a single can may suffice).

Related Resources

FAQs

How does Ludwig Spaeth differ from other lilacs?

It is known for its especially dark purple blooms and strong fragrance, making it one of the most dramatic lilacs.
How large does it get?

It can grow into a tall, substantial shrub, often reaching up to 15 feet in height.
Is it good for hedges?

Yes, its dense growth and height make it excellent for informal screening or hedging.

Shipping Details

Estimated Shipping Time: Most orders ship immediately. As noted on the website, some items are seasonal, and may only ship in spring or fall. Once your order is shipped, you’ll receive an email with a tracking number.

Amount of Order	Shipping Charge
Local Delivery	FREE SHIPPING
Non-Local Delivery	Varies based on UPS shipping

Mature Height	Small: Up to 15 ft
Mature Spread	5-10 ft
Growth Rate	Fast, Moderate
Botanical Name	Syringa vulgaris 'Andenken an Ludwig Spaeth'
Bloom Time	Late Spring
Deer Resistant	Usually
Family	Oleaceae
Flower Color	Blue/Purple
Hardiness Zones	3, 4, 5, 6, 7
Light Needs	Full Sun
Maintenance	Medium
Size	#3 Container, #5 Container

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Mature Height	Large: Up to 6 ft	Large: Up to 6 ft	Small: Up to 15 ft	Extra Large: Above 6 ft	Large: Up to 6 ft	Extra Large: Above 6 ft
Mature Spread	0-5 ft	0-5 ft	5-10 ft	5-10 ft	5-10 ft	5-10 ft
Growth Rate	Fast, Moderate	Moderate	Fast, Moderate	Moderate, Slow	Fast	Moderate
Bloom Time	Mid Summer	Early Summer	Early Summer	Early Spring	Late Spring	Early Summer
Deer Resistant	Usually	Usually	Usually	Usually	Usually	Usually
Family	Hydrangeaceae	Oleaceae	Rosaceae	Adoxaceae	Rosaceae	Adoxaceae
Flower Color	Pink	Blue/Purple	White	White	White	White
Hardiness Zones	3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8	3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8	3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8	4, 5, 6, 7, 8	4, 5, 6, 7, 8	3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Light Needs	Full Sun	Full Sun	Full Sun	Full Sun, Partial Sun	Full Sun	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Maintenance	Low	Low	Low	Low	Low	Low