COPPER CURLS® PEKIN LILAC

January 16, 2023

A close up of a tree trunk with peeling bark

Copper Curls Pekin Lilac

Syringa Reticulata SSP. Pekinensis 'SunDak'


This is one of our favorite trees for a front yard specimen.


The tree is small enough to find a home in almost any front yard. It has a very showy appearance. Spring white blossoms bring in the season, and the "copper curls" of the exfoliating bark add interest any time of year. It is also very tolerant, adapting to most growing conditions present in residential North Dakota neighborhoods.


This tree was also introduced by NDSU (along with Dr. Scott Redlin, Raleigh, NC). Which gives it a special place in our heart as a local variety.


The combination of very showy, unique appearance, tolerance of various environmental conditions, and low maintenance makes for a perfect specimen tree for your front yard.


It is hardy in USDA zones 3-7. Matures to a height of 25' in a rounded to upright habit with medium growth. The foliage is medium to dark green with a slight sheen in Summer and drops all foliage for Winter. The exfoliating (curling, peeling, flaking) orange bark and large clusters of tan seed capsules maintains interest in Winter. The tree is finer in texture and more open branches and leaves than Japanese Lilac Tree. Creamy white flowers bloom typically shortly after common lilac, extending the Spring vibes.


Copper Curls should be planted in full sun to partial shade. Prefers moist, well-drained soils and is pH adaptable. It is also tolerant of some polution, and will stand up to light browsing by deer. This makes it an incredibly resilient tree.


If you are interested in your own Copper Curls® Pekin Lilac please contact us at
Tree Rows 4 U 

Recent Posts

A tree with a broken branch is sitting in the grass.
March 3, 2025
Will Tree Bark Grow Back?
A flooded area with trees and a road in the background
March 3, 2025
Will Spring Flooding Kill My Trees?
A row of trees with yellow leaves on a hillside
February 6, 2025
Quaking Aspen, Native to Montana, a North Dakota Neighbor
Show More