Overview

Syringa microphylla 'Red Pixie' is a deciduous shrub in the genus Syringa, part of the Oleaceae family. Syringa microphylla 'Red Pixie' grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates well-drained and fertile soils and neutral and alkaline pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include borders, containers, small gardens and fragrance garden. It is native to China.

About

A compact, deciduous shrub with small, dark green leaves and clusters of fragrant, deep pink to red flowers in late spring to early summer.

About the genus

Syringa is a genus of 12 currently recognized species of flowering woody plants in the olive family called lilacs. They are native to woodland and scrub from southeastern Europe to eastern Asia, and widely and commonly cultivated in temperate areas elsewhere.

Wikipedia contributors, "Syringa", CC BY-SA 4.0Syringa

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Syringa

Sunlight
full sun, partial shade
Soil type
well-drained, fertile
Soil pH
neutral, alkaline
Soil moisture
moist, well-drained
Aspect
south, east, west
Exposure
sheltered to exposed
UK hardiness
H5

Plant details

Syringa microphylla 'Red Pixie' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
deciduous shrub
Suggested uses
borders, containers, small gardens, fragrance garden
Native to
China
Fragrance
fragrant

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Syringa microphylla 'Red Pixie'

Cultivation
Prefers well-drained soil and a sunny position; benefits from mulching and regular watering during dry periods.
Pruning
Prune immediately after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth.
Propagation
softwood cuttings in early summer, semi-hardwood cuttings, layering

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Syringa microphylla 'Red Pixie'?

Prefers well-drained soil and a sunny position; benefits from mulching and regular watering during dry periods.

Where is the best place to plant Syringa microphylla 'Red Pixie'?

Syringa microphylla 'Red Pixie' prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered to exposed positions.

What soil does Syringa microphylla 'Red Pixie' need?

Syringa microphylla 'Red Pixie' grows best in well-drained and fertile soil. It prefers neutral and alkaline soil. Aim for soil that stays moist to well-drained.

How do I prune Syringa microphylla 'Red Pixie'?

Prune immediately after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth.

Is Syringa microphylla 'Red Pixie' hardy in the UK?

Syringa microphylla 'Red Pixie' has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.

How do I propagate Syringa microphylla 'Red Pixie'?

Softwood cuttings in early summer, semi-hardwood cuttings, layering.

More in the Syringa genus

Browse all Syringa