Pocahontas Lilac (Syringa x hyacinthiflora 'Pocahontas') is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the olive family. This lilac variety is known for its stunning deep purple buds that open into fragrant lavender-pink flowers.

Pollination

Pocahontas Lilac is pollinated by bees, butterflies, and other insect pollinators. The flowers of the Pocahontas Lilac are rich in nectar and attract these pollinators with their sweet fragrance and bright colors.

It is important to note that Pocahontas Lilac is self-incompatible, meaning that it cannot pollinate itself. In order to produce fruit, cross-pollination with another compatible cultivar is required. Some recommended cultivars for cross-pollination include:

• Syringa x hyacinthiflora 'Maiden's Blush'
• Syringa x hyacinthiflora 'Mount Baker'
• Syringa x hyacinthiflora 'Mount St. Helens'

Cross-pollination is best achieved by planting two or more different cultivars within 100 feet of each other. This will increase the chances of successfully producing fruit and viable seeds.

Pocahontas Lilac (Syringa x hyacinthiflora 'Pocahontas') FAQ

1. What is a Pocahontas Lilac?

A Pocahontas Lilac is a deciduous shrub that is a hybrid of two species of lilac. It produces fragrant, pale pink to lavender flowers in the spring and has green foliage throughout the growing season.

2. How tall and wide can a Pocahontas Lilac grow?

On average, a Pocahontas Lilac can grow up to 8-10 feet tall and 6-8 feet wide when mature.

3. When does a Pocahontas Lilac bloom?

A Pocahontas Lilac typically blooms in late April to early May, depending on the climate and weather conditions.

4. How often should a Pocahontas Lilac be watered?

A Pocahontas Lilac should be watered deeply once a week, especially during hot and dry weather. However, it is important not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot and other problems.

5. How do I prune a Pocahontas Lilac?

A Pocahontas Lilac should be pruned after it has finished blooming. Remove any dead or damaged branches, and prune back the remaining growth to shape the shrub. It is important not to prune more than one-third of the shrub's growth in a single year.

6. Does a Pocahontas Lilac attract bees or other pollinators?

Yes, a Pocahontas Lilac is known to attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators with its fragrant flowers.

7. Can a Pocahontas Lilac be grown in containers?

While it is possible to grow a Pocahontas Lilac in a container, it is not recommended as the shrub can become too large and is better suited to being planted in the ground.

8. Does a Pocahontas Lilac require fertilizer?

A Pocahontas Lilac can benefit from a balanced fertilizer applied in early spring before new growth appears. However, it is important not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flower production.

9. Are there any pests or diseases that can affect a Pocahontas Lilac?

A Pocahontas Lilac can be susceptible to various pests and diseases such as aphids, scale insects, powdery mildew, and leaf blight. To prevent and control these issues, it is important to maintain good plant hygiene, prune as needed, and apply appropriate treatments when necessary.

10. Can a Pocahontas Lilac be propagated?

Yes, a Pocahontas Lilac can be propagated through cuttings or by layering. It is also possible to graft a Pocahontas Lilac onto a rootstock of a different lilac species.

Planting & Care for Pocahontas Lilac (Syringa x hyacinthiflora 'Pocahontas')

Planting:

• Choose a planting location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
• Ensure the soil is well-draining and has a pH level between 6.0 and 7.5.
• Dig a hole that is twice the width of the root ball and deep enough for the plant to be planted at the same depth as it was in the container.
• Backfill the hole with soil and tamp it down gently to remove any air pockets.
• Water thoroughly after planting.

Care:

• Water the plant deeply once a week, providing enough water to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
• Fertilize the plant with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring before new growth appears.
• Prune the plant immediately after flowering, removing any dead or damaged wood and trimming back any overgrown branches to maintain the desired shape.
• Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant in early spring to help retain moisture and control weeds.
• Keep an eye out for pests, such as aphids or scale insects, and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil if necessary.

Tips:

• It is important to provide regular pruning to your Pocahontas Lilac to keep it healthy and flourishing.
• Deadheading the spent blooms is also a must to promote new growth and blooming.