Syringa pekinensis Beijing Gold®

Beijing Gold exhibits multiple seasons of interest, from its panicles of fragrant, primrose-yellow flowers in early summer to its dark green foliage that can turn an eye-catching yellow in autumn. The ornamental, cherry-like cinnamon-colored bark is attractive year-round. An upright habit and finer branches than most tree lilacs completes the package. Best grown in full sun on a well-drained, reasonably moist soil, which can be acidic to alkaline. Drought-tolerant once established. Prune if necessary immediately after blooming. Since it has a better branching habit than most tree lilacs, there is less of a need for corrective shape pruning. Excellent as a specimen plant or in groups in the lawn or along drives and parkways, in the mixed woody plant border, as a foundation shrub, or in any other suitable habitat where its excellent ornamental attributes can be appreciated year-round. It can be grown either single-stemmed or multistemmed, depending on your space and preferred habit. More upright and finer-branched than most tree lilacs.

A selection made by Zhang Zhiming of the Beijing Botanic Garden, People’s Republic of China. This selection was introduced into the United States through the North America-China Plant Exploration Consortium (NACPEC). The species is native to northern China.