Commonly known as Rouen or Chinese Lilac, this eye-catching hybrid is a cross between Syringa persica and S.vulgaris. The result is a free flowering shrub with much smaller leaves than the Common Lilac, giving a more airy appearance in garden borders. From late spring, this hardy, deciduous shrub is smothered in panicles of dainty, mauve-purple blooms with a sweet and spicy perfume. Lilac \'Saugeana\' has an upright habit with slightly arching stems when in full flower. It is a quick grower, but can be pruned to maintain a more compact habit.