This virtual tour highlights a growing and exceptional collection of lilacs made possible through the support and expertise of the International Lilac Society (ILS). United by a shared appreciation for the genus Syringa, the ILS brings together growers, scholars, and enthusiasts dedicated to expanding knowledge of lilacs through education, publication, and research. That mission is reflected throughout this collection.

In partnership with the International Lilac Society, Denver Botanic Gardens has acquired dozens of rare, heritage, and botanically significant lilacs, enriching its living collections and broadening public understanding of this beloved genus. While many of these plants are concentrated in the Lilac Garden, others are woven throughout the campus, inviting discovery in unexpected places. The collection continues to grow each year as new accessions are introduced with the assistance of the ILS, strengthening both conservation and horticultural diversity. This tour offers a closer look at these remarkable plants and the collaborative effort behind their preservation and celebration.

Learn more about the International Lilac Society.