Preston lilac and Smoke bush are often considered for the same spot in the garden (flowers, screening, specimen). The data below shows where they differ: size, hardiness, care, toxicity and price.
Syringa × prestoniae 2.5 m × 2 m after 10 years
A large, upright then rounded lilac that flowers a week or two after common lilac, in late May and June, with big conical panicles in pink, purplish…
Cotinus coggygria 3 m × 3 m after 10 years
A large, spreading deciduous shrub known for the smoke-like, pinkish, fluffy plumes it carries in summer and for its yellow, orange and purple-red…
Preston lilac is hardier: down to -40 °C, against -29 °C for Smoke bush.
Smoke bush tolerates drought better than Preston lilac.
Smoke bush is cheaper: about HUF 7,000 at the size usually planted, against about HUF 9,700 for Preston lilac.
|
Feature
|
Preston lilac
|
Smoke bush
|
|---|---|---|
| Group | Shrub | Shrub |
| Size after 10 years | 2.5 m × 2 m | 3 m × 3 m |
| Ultimate size | 2.4–3.5 m × 1.8–3 m | 3–5 m × 3–4.5 m |
| Growth rate | Medium | Medium |
| Light | Full sun | Full sun |
| Soil | Average garden soil | Average garden soil, Clay, Sandy, Calcareous, Acidic |
| Hardiness | down to -40 °C (USDA 3, RHS H7) | down to -29 °C (USDA 4, RHS H7) |
| Foliage | Deciduous | Deciduous |
| Flowering | May–June, pink, purple, white | May–July, yellow, pink |
| Water need | Medium | Medium |
| Drought tolerance | Medium | High |
| Maintenance | Low | Low |
| Planting distance | 200 cm | 250 cm |
| For children | no data | Mildly toxic |
| Typical price | approx. HUF 9,700 | approx. HUF 7,000 |
Prices are rounded, indicative values. Toxicity data is for information only. If your pet or child has eaten a plant, contact a vet or a doctor. Data updated: October 13, 2026
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