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Wildflowers
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Syringa
(Philadelphus lewisii -
Hydrangea Family)
History: The genus name "Philadelphus" pays honor to an Egyptian king, Ptolemy Philadelphus, while the species name "lewisii" pays tribute to the scientist and explorer, Captain Meriwether Lewis. Captain Lewis first discovered this plant in 1806 during the Lewis & Clark exploration of the Louisiana Purchase. It was selected as the state flower of Idaho.
Description: Syringa is a shrub that can reach heights from 3 to 10 feet. It has conspicuous white, waxy-like flowers with many bright yellow stamens. The flowers are 1 to 2 inches in size and give off a fragrance that scents the air and is reminiscent of orange blossoms. Leaves are ovate in outline, are 1 to 3 inches long and appear opposite on the branch. Sometimes hillsides are so densely covered with blossoms of the Syringa that it gives the impression of a snow-covered hillside.
Habitat: Found in medium-dry to moist soil along streams, rocky slopes, hillsides and mountains. Blooms latter part of May through July.
Comments: The straight stems of the Syringa were used by Indians for arrows. Due to lack of information regarding the Syringa's edibility, it should be considered poisonous.
USDA Forest Service - Kootenai National Forest
Last Modified: Monday, 17 November 2003 at 14:18:27 EST