The beautiful appearance and the fragrance of the lilac flower is probably the main reason people plant lilac bushes. While they are enjoyed tremendously, not many people know all of the facts about this interesting plume of lilac bloom.
The lilac flower comes in a wide range of colorful hues; from pristine white to the darkest purple. Each person has their personal favorite, but the common favorites are the lavender and dark purple among most admirers. The colors do not affect the scents, although the scents can be simply sweet and heavenly to sweet and spicy depending on the type of lilac bush.
The scent of the lilac flower is so intoxicating that its brief bloom time is not enough for its most ardent fans. Perfumes, lotions and soaps have utilized the popular fragrance of the lilac flower. Candles, room sprays and linen sprays also are available in the scent of lilac, although none of these imitations can quite match the unforgettable aroma in spring air of fresh lilacs blooming.
A close look at the lilac flower itself can reveal the reason for its strong scent. A single plume has a center stem with systematic branches, from the end of which springs two tube like parts that support the bud at the end. The buds appear to be divided in four parts; these parts gradually unfold to form a petal oval in shape. Buds at the bottom of the plume will open first, and then graduate toward the top until all are open. The scent is derived from molecules that the plant itself produces, and can be extracted in the form of essential oils to be used in scented products. However, most lilac scented products of today are synthetic. vase filled with lilac flower plumes must be one of the most beloved springtime home accessories. When picking the blooms to bring indoors, choose those plumes with the most flowers open for the maximum scent. Cut back several inches from the plume to allow enough of the branch within the vase to best display the flowers at the top. Be sure not to cut plumes from only one area of the bush, creating a “bald” spot in the bush. Since the lilac flower is a cool weather product, keeping the cut flowers in a cool spot will prolong their life.
If you are lucky enough to own one of these flowering bushes, you will know the pure pleasure of the scent of the lilac flower. Having the lilac bush is only part of the fun. Enjoying the fragrance of this simple, common flowering plume of beauty must truly be the best part of springtime.
