If you look closely, you can tell that a lilac bush is there even when it’s not flowering. Lilacs are loved for their fragrant spring flowers. There are some small but noticeable differences between lilac leaves and leaves from other plants. We’ll talk about the most important ways to tell lilac foliage apart in this article.
Leaf Arrangement
Along the stem, lilac leaves grow opposite to each other, with each leaf coming out right next to the one before it. The leaves don’t go in a circle around the branch or alternate along it. This difference in leaf arrangement is a clear sign of a lilac shrub.
Leaf Shape
Most lilac leaves are ovate or heart-shaped, Some may be more rounded while others are slightly narrower, But the basic form is broad at the base and tapers to a point at the tip This shape is a classic identifier of lilac leaves
Leaf Margins
Lilac leaf edges are entire, meaning they are smooth without teeth or lobes. The leaf outline forms an unbroken oval or heart shape. No jagged edges or indentations along the margin.
Leaf Size
Lilac leaves are typically 2 to 5 inches long. Leaf width ranges from 1 to 3 inches wide, smaller than the length. The leaves are a medium green color and moderately sized on the shrub.
Leaf Texture
Lilac leaves are shiny and smooth on the outside, and they feel soft or slightly leathery on the inside. The undersides of the leaves may have fine hairs, but the leaves as a whole feel soft, not fuzzy or hairy. The texture is smooth and flexible.
Leaf Venation
Veins in lilac leaves are pinnate, meaning a main central vein runs from base to tip with secondary veins branching off it. The veins are not starkly visible but upon close inspection show a faint pattern.
Leaf Scent
When crushed, lilac leaves have no distinct aroma. This contrasts with their fragrant flowers in spring. Don’t expect any scent from the leaves.
Leaf Buds
Leaf buds on lilac twigs are much smaller and more sharply pointed than the larger, fatter flower buds. They protrude directly from the branch, not on a short side stalk like flower buds.
Leaf Coloration
New spring leaves emerge light green and darken as they mature. Fall color is a muted yellow before the leaves drop. Winter leaf buds are reddish brown. So you’ll see different shades through the seasons.
Identifying Characteristics Together
It can be tricky differentiating lilac leaves from some lookalikes, like ash trees. But with attention to detail, you can positively identify Syringa vulgaris foliage. Examine the leaf characteristics together rather than relying on just one trait.
The key qualities to recognize are the opposite arrangement, heart or oval shape, smooth margins, moderate size and texture, pinnate veins, lack of aroma, pointed buds on twigs, and color changes through the seasons. Look for these signs in combination to conclusively identify a lilac leaf.
Appreciating Lilac Leaves
Lilac bushes are often grown for their spring blooms. But the elegant leaves contribute year-round interest, fall color, and winter structure. Learn to recognize lilac leaves in every season to fully appreciate this garden classic. Refer back to the details above anytime you need a refresher on identifying lilac foliage.