French Lilac (Syringa vulgaris)
Olive Family (Oleaceae)

Habitat:

This large shrub is commonly planted in people's yards for ornamental purposes. It can grow to 15 feet or more.

Leaves:

Oppositely arranged, heart-shaped, with smooth margins.

Flowers:

Small, light purple, with four fused petals. Some cultivated varieties have pink or white flowers, but Plant Watch focuses on the common purple-flowered variety.

Fruit:

A small, brown capsule that cracks open and remains on the plant into the next spring.

Helpful Tips:

This shrub is sometimes found growing in the wild in Maine. Its native range is in Europe. For more information, see Flora of Maine.