Lilac plant named ‘Golden Eclipse’

Abstract

A new and distinct highly ornamental cultivar of Syringa reticulata Japanese Tree Lilac is provided. The Lilac plant has an upright compact growth habit. The foliage possesses variegation that initially is green with an irregular darker green center wherein the margins turn to a stable bright yellow-gold coloration upon maturity. The blossoms are white and are displayed during late spring to early summer. Good winter hardiness is made possible and the plant has been found to be free of insect and disease problems. The plant is particularly well-suited for providing distinctive ornamentation in the landscape.

1. A new and distinct  Syringa reticulata  plant having the following combination of characteristics:
 (a) exhibitis upright compact growth habit,  
 (b) forms attractive variegated foliage that initially is green with an irregular darker green center wherein the margins turn to a stable bright yellow-gold coloration upon maturity,  
 (c) forms fragrant white flowers in the late spring to early summer,  
 (d) is relatively free of insect and disease problems, and  
 (e) is well-suited for providing distinctive ornamentation in the landscape;  
 
     substantially as illustrated and described.