As spring slowly gives way to early summer, our city streets and parks quietly burst into color and life.

In Shenyang, this time of year brings more than just warm sunshine—it brings waves of blooming flowers, like nature's silent contest of beauty. One flower, in particular, stands out: the lilac.

When Lilacs Steal the Show

In the botanical gardens, the lilac trees have gone from showing just a few fresh green leaves to suddenly exploding with thick bunches of purple blooms. These flowers grow in clusters, their light fragrance floating through the air, making us feel calm and refreshed. It's no wonder so many people stop and stare—or take a deep breath.

Lilacs Have a Long History in China

Did you know that China has been growing lilacs for over a thousand years? Back in the Tang Dynasty, a poet named Duan Chengshi even mentioned lilacs being planted by a top official in his estate. He wrote that the gardens there had yellow magnolias and purple lilacs. So, lilacs aren't just beautiful—they're part of our heritage.

What Kind of Plant Is a Lilac?

The kind we see most often is called Syringa oblata, or purple lilac. It's part of the olive family and grows as a bush or small tree, usually 2 to 4 meters tall. It originally came from northern China but now grows in places from the northeast all the way to parts of the southwest.

Let's Talk Leaves and Flowers

Lilac leaves are usually roundish or heart-shaped with a pointed tip. When it blooms, the flowers grow in cone-shaped clusters that stand upright. The flower stems are short, the purple petals form a long tube, and inside, you'll see yellow pollen tucked neatly at the top of the tube.

The "Lilac Knot" Mystery

Before lilacs bloom, their flower buds look tightly curled and round, kind of like those traditional Chinese knotted buttons you see on silk jackets. Could that be where the idea of “lilac knot” came from? Maybe!

So Many Petals, So Much Beauty

Lilacs usually open up into four-petaled flowers, though you might occasionally spot one with five or six petals. The center parts stay hidden, giving the flower a simple but elegant look. But here's the real wow factor: when all those tiny flowers bloom together, they form giant, fluffy cones that almost double in size. The color? A soft purple that's both gentle and eye-catching. And the scent? Heavenly.

What Makes Lilacs Smell So Good?

The amazing fragrance of lilacs comes from something inside the plant—chemicals called terpenes. Two special genes, SoTPS2 and SoTPS3, help the plant create these sweet-smelling compounds. This lovely scent isn't just for us to enjoy—it also helps the plant attract pollinators and stay healthy.

Surprising Health and Environmental Benefits

Lilacs aren't just pretty—they're useful too. In traditional Chinese medicine, they've been used to help with certain stomach issues. Even more impressive, lilac plants can absorb harmful air pollutants like sulfur dioxide. On top of that, their flowers can be turned into essential oils, adding a nice scent to products we use. Some even use young lilac leaves as a tea alternative. Who knew this plant had so many talents?

Can We Eat Lilacs?

We might see lilacs everywhere and think about using them in cooking, especially since we know the word “clove” from recipes. But here's the thing: the clove we use in food isn't the same as the lilac we see growing in gardens. Edible clove comes from a different plant called Syzygium aromaticum, which belongs to a whole other family and grows in other countries. That one is used for teas, stews, and even traditional remedies. Lilac buds, though, don't have that same flavor or health value. So it's best to admire them, not eat them.

Want to Grow One at Home?

Lilacs are a great choice for anyone who wants to add color and fragrance to their yard. They love sunny spots and don't like soggy soil. They're tough, too—they can handle cold winters and dry spells pretty well. If you want to plant a lilac, make sure the soil is rich and well-drained. Keep up with watering and feeding, and your lilac will reward you with beautiful blooms year after year.

Lykkers, Let's Celebrate Nature!

Lilacs remind us that beauty is often found in the little things—like the smell of flowers on a morning walk or a burst of color outside your window. Now that you know how amazing lilacs are, why not go see them up close? Or maybe even plant one yourself? Let's enjoy nature's gifts together and share the joy!

Want to smell a lilac today, Lykkers? Tell us if there's one blooming near your home!