'Wedgewood Blue' lilac

The Cincinnati Flower Show has been described as "The King of All Flower Shows." I've only attended the event once and have to say that it was pretty impressive. But of all the gorgeous designs, arrangements and plants that I saw while I was there, one really stood out to me: the 'Wedgewood Blue' lilac. I just couldn't forget the glorious color of those flowers and their tantalizing scent - not too strong, not too sweet. Just perfect!

I started scouring nurseries, trying to find one for my own garden. Nothing. Finally I resorted to an online search and found them offered at White Flower Farm (although I don't think they still carry this variety). I was disappointed that I was going to have to start with such a small shrub, but I bought the one-gallon pot nonetheless and waited.

Wedgewood started blooming after three years. And three years after that, it is glorious. Its scent fills my yard and my home as I bring in armloads for the kitchen table.

I highly recommend it!

('Wedgewood Blue' is a Father Fiala introduction and, in addition to its beautiful blue flowers, it has unique lilac-pink buds and is one of the mildew resistant varieties.)