The Charles Joly lilac is a cultivar of the common lilac (Syringa vulgaris) that is prized for its rich magenta-purple blooms and intense fragrance. With its showy flowers and neat growth habit, it’s easy to see why this lilac variety has become a garden favorite. But if you’re considering adding a Charles Joly lilac to your own landscape, you may be wondering – just how fast does this beauty grow?
In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at the growth rate and mature size of the Charles Joly lilac. We’ll provide tips on how to help it reach its full potential in your garden. Let’s start by looking at some key facts
- Botanical Name: Syringa vulgaris ‘Charles Joly’
- Type: Deciduous shrub
- Mature Size: 8-12 feet tall and wide
- Growth Rate: Medium
- Bloom Time: Mid to late spring
- Hardiness Zone: 2-7
An Overview of Growth Rate
When assessing a plant’s growth rate, it’s usually categorized as slow, medium, or fast Keep in mind that growth rate can vary based on growing conditions The rates below assume the plant is grown in ideal conditions for the species.
- Slow – less than 12″ per year
- Medium – 12-24″ per year
- Fast – more than 24″ per year
The Charles Joly lilac is considered a medium growth rate plant. In the right conditions it can gain 1-2 feet in height and width each year.
Compared to other shrubs, this moderate rate of growth is one of the things that makes the Charles Joly lilac so appealing. It reaches a refined, shapely form in the landscape without requiring frequent pruning to keep it in check.
Expected Mature Size
The expected mature size of the Charles Joly lilac is 8-12 feet tall and wide. It grows with a rounded, multi-stemmed form.
Like other lilacs, the Charles Joly cultivar blooms on old wood. This means the flowering stems emerge from growth that occurred in previous seasons. Pruning back new growth too aggressively can remove potential flowering stems.
To promote lush blooms, allow the shrub to reach its full size. Then maintain its shape with careful, selective pruning.
Factors That Influence Growth Rate
Several factors play a role in determining the growth rate of any plant. For Charles Joly lilac, be sure to provide:
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Full sun – Lilacs need a minimum of 6 hours of direct sun per day. Morning sun is ideal.
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Well-drained soil – Standing water can lead to root rot. Choose a spot with soil that drains well.
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Moderate fertility – Avoid over-fertilizing, which can cause leggy growth.
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Adequate moisture – Water regularly until established. Mature plants have average water needs.
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Proper planting – Give new plants a good start by digging a wide planting hole and backfilling with amended soil.
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Time to establish – Expect slower growth the first 1-2 years as the roots get established.
Meeting these key growing requirements will help ensure your Charles Joly reaches its full height and width within the expected timeframe.
Expected Lifespan
In addition to its growth habits, it’s helpful to understand the projected lifespan of Charles Joly lilac.
With proper care, this variety can live for approximately 30 years or longer. Some lilac shrubs have been known to thrive for well over 100 years.
To help your shrub live a long and healthy life:
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Select a site with well-drained soil and sun exposure.
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Water during drought and fertilize lightly to encourage growth.
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Prune strategically to maintain shape, airflow, and flowering wood.
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Watch for common issues like powdery mildew and scale. Treat as needed.
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Protect from harsh winter winds and extreme cold if possible.
Growth Rate in the First Year
The first year is an important establishment period for Charles Joly lilac. With proper care, you can expect to see new growth of 1-2 feet in the first growing season after planting.
Here are some first year care tips:
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Plant in spring once the threat of frost has passed.
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Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.
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Apply a 2-4 inch layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
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Stake the shrub if needed to prevent wind damage to the young stems.
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Water deeply every 7-10 days if rainfall is lacking.
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Watch for suckers emerging from the root system and remove promptly.
With attentive care in the first year, your Charles Joly lilac will kick off healthy new growth.
Achieving Full Size Takes Time
While lilacs are relatively fast starters, remember that it takes time for the Charles Joly variety to reach full maturity.
The shrub will need 2-3 years after planting to become well established. As it matures, you can expect an average gain of 1-2 feet per year under ideal growing conditions.
Be patient! With proper care, your lilac will develop into a specimen quality shrub over time. The wait is well worth it when those clusters of floral blooms emerge against the heart-shaped green foliage.
Tips for Maximizing Growth Rate
If you wish to speed up the growth rate a bit, here are some helpful tips:
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Plant in early spring so the roots have time to establish before summer.
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Water thoroughly when rainfall is less than 1 inch per week.
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Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Repeat in late fall if desired.
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Replenish the mulch layer each spring to retain soil moisture and nutrition.
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Prune strategically right after flowering to encourage new growth.
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Monitor for pests like scale and treat promptly to avoid stunted growth.
With close attention to its care, you can help your Charles Joly lilac grow vigorously within its natural rate.
Achieving a Full, Healthy Shrub
The Charles Joly lilac performs best when grown in the right conditions and properly cared for. By providing this medium-rated grower with what it needs, you’ll enjoy a fuller, healthier shrub.
Some final tips for success:
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Select a site with full sun and well-drained soil.
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Give young plants extra water until the roots establish.
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Mulch yearly to conserve moisture and nourish the soil.
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Prune after bloom to shape and renew growth.
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Watch for common issues like powdery mildew and treat as needed.
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Protect from harsh winter conditions if possible.
In return, the Charles Joly lilac will reward you with its stunning blooms, neat form, and intense fragrance for years to come.
Charles Joly Lilac Training to standard (part 1 of 5) #charlesjolylilac
FAQ
What is the strongest smelling lilac variety?
What are the fast growing lilacs?
Is Charles Joly lilac deer resistant?
What is a Charles Joly lilac?
With its scented purple-red blooms, the Charles Joly Lilac is a joy to behold. Also known as Syringa vulgaris ‘Charles Joly’, this lilac can grow from 8 to 15 feet tall. Loved by pollinators and hummingbirds, its double flowers are also ideal for cutting and bringing into the home.
How do you grow Charles Joly lilac?
Impressive enough to grow as a specimen, you can also add Charles Joly Lilac to a mixed border or use it to form an informal and fragrant hedge. This lilac can cope with some partial shade. However, for the best blooms, it should be grown in full sun. It prefers a fertile and well-drained soil that is either neutral or alkaline.
How often should lilac ‘Charles Joly’ be watered?
Watering should be regular but moderate, as common lilac ‘Charles Joly’ is drought-tolerant once established. Pruning after blooming helps maintain shape and encourage future blooms. AI-powered plant doctor helps you diagnose plant problems in seconds. Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more!
Should Charles Joly lilac be deadheaded?
To avoid losing the following year’s blooms, Charles Joly Lilac should be deadheaded and pruned immediately after flowering. Removing up to one-third of the oldest stems back to the ground will help encourage new growth and promote good ventilation.
How far apart should I plant a Charles Joly lilac?
When mature, the Charles Joly Lilac can reach a height and spread of 8 to 15 feet tall by 8 to 12 feet. When growing as a group or in a row, you can plant this lilac at a spacing of around 10 to 12 feet apart. Please Note: The pictures below are to give a general representation of the different container sizes.
How do you care for a Charles Joly lilac?
It’s essential to ensure adequate space for air circulation to prevent powdery mildew, a common issue. Watering should be regular but moderate, as common lilac ‘Charles Joly’ is drought-tolerant once established. Pruning after blooming helps maintain shape and encourage future blooms.