Even before a Central Park visitor reaches the
narrow dirt path that borders the north
rim of the Sheep Meadow they are greeted
by the sweet aroma of blooming lilacs.
23 varieties of purple, pink and white lilac
blossoms lilacs from around the world have
been planted on the narrow lawn that
borders the north rim of the Sheep Meadow.
The selection includes the Dutch Syringa
vulgaris as well as the Southeast European
and American varieties. Hybrids from the
United States and France have also been
planted and all are skillfully and creatively
presented by skilled gardeners to the delight
of all who walk along this path. There are
even varieties from Canada and China.
When these lilacs blossom, their intense
fragrance is quite demanding and few who
pass this way can ignore the theater of
aroma that envelops them.
Created in 1970, Lilac Walk was conceived
and financed by philanthropist Nell Singer.
It is bordered on the south by the north
fence of the Sheep Meadow, which features
the crawling vines of clematis and morning
glories in the summer.
Yet it is in the spring, on the other side of
the walkway, when the cold, long New York
winter has passed from memory that the real
drama for the senses unfolds.
