PLANT PORN: LILAC

With over 1000 varieties and the lofty title of 'Queen of Shrubs', lilac is as abundant as it is lovely.

THE DEETS

Bursting into bloom every Spring, lilacs come in a range of purples, pinks and whites. They are all scented, but you'll find the classic purple varieties have the headiest aroma, making it a firm fave for perfumes.

NAMECHECK

You might think the flower is named for its colour, but it's actually the other way around! 'Lilac' comes from the Persona word for flower, lilaq, and is now the namesake of light purple tones everywhere.

It's botanical name, Syringa, comes from the beautiful nymph of Greek mythology who turned herself into a lilac bush after an over-amorous Pan was chasing for her affections, yikes.

RATING

Easy as. They'll grow in most settings in the UK, but prefer to avoid acidic soils. Done right, they can live for 100 years so well worth the investment!