Lilacs: A Gardener's Encyclopedia by John Fiala, John L. Fiala, Freek Vrugtman

Synopsis

A new and up-to-date edition of the classic reference First published in 1988 by award-winning American hybridizer Reverend John Fiala, this unique reference quickly became known worldwide as the lilac lover's bible. The latest revision combines Fiala's passion for lilacs with the expertise of Freek Vrugtman, the International Lilac Registrar. The new book provides up-to-date information on the 21 known lilac species and 10 natural hybrids, as well as hundreds of named cultivars. Five hundred new color photos have been added, including some which show the newest introductions from Russia and Poland. The text addresses practical concerns of selecting, growing, propagating, and using lilacs in the landscape. Packed with nearly six hundred color photographs, Lilacs: A Gardener's Encyclopedia tells the story of a classic fragrant shrub cherished for its reliable masses of colorful flowers.

Biography

John L. Fiala (1924–1990) introduced 78 lilac cultivars, wrote a definitive encyclopedia on lilacs, and founded the International Lilac Society. He significantly improved the color and performance of these plants. For his hybridizing achievements he was awarded the Thomas Roland Medal in 1980 by the Massachusetts Horticultural Society.

Freek Vrugtman, the International Lilac Registrar, was curator of collections at Royal Botanical Gardens in Hamilton, Ontario, and the botanical gardens of the University of British Columbia in Vancouver. In 2002 he was awarded the Science Medal by the International Society for Horticultural Science.