Summer Storm Japanese Tree Lilac

Summer Storm is a vigorous Japanese tree lilac with creamy-white flowers and dark green foliage. Its broadly upright form keeps a central leader while the lower branches spread more widely, so it can provide height and seasonal shade. ## Flowers and form The [Summer Storm listing from Goodmark Nurseries](https://www.goodmarknurseries.com/product/summer-storm-japanese-tree-lilac/) identifies the selection and gives a mature height of 20 feet and spread of 15 feet. The [cultivar patent record](https://patents.google.com/patent/US20130291238P1/en) describes its upright growth, rapid development, and use as a specimen, screen, or street tree. The [University of Minnesota tree lilac profile](https://trees.umn.edu/japanese-tree-lilac-syringa-reticulata) describes the species’ fragrant white panicles in late spring to early summer and its dark green leaves. ## Siting Choose a sunny, open location with space for a broad lower crown. It can work as a specimen or screen, and the species profile notes tolerance of dry sites and alkaline soil as well as preference for moist, well-drained ground. ## Maintenance Water new plantings during establishment and during prolonged drought. Prune after flowering only when needed to preserve the natural branching form.