Lilacs are a very important part of The Gables garden. We used to have many more than we have now, and they made a strong impression on our founder, Caroline Emmerton. “I remember the thrill that the gaunt old house gave me when I first caught sight of it. It was shrouded in lilac bushes. They loomed high above a very high fence, and above the lilacs rose the dark old house, craned by its steeply sloping roof.” A few of our existing lilac plants are quite old.
Lilacs were introduced to the American colonies in the 18th century and were very popular in the early part of the 20th century. Our variety is Syringa vulgaris (the common lilac) or cultivars of such.
Our lilacs typically bloom in mid to late May, depending on the weather. Several varieties of viburnum (flowering shrubs) bloom in May. They are always a favorite as some have beautiful scents (Viburnum carlesii being one of them).
We encourage folks to purchase a grounds pass and enjoy the sights, sounds, and scents in our seaside gardens. The grounds are always free for Gables members.