Shrub or small tree native to Western Europe with a very branched crown. Deciduous light green heart-shaped leaves, 5-10 cm long and 4-12 cm wide. Flowers in April-May with terminal racemes of simple, fragrant flowers on the previous year's wood. Hardy but prefers slightly compact, moist but well-drained soils. Withered panicles should be removed to ensure better flowering the following year. Resistant to drought and pollution, used alone, in groups, and for hedges in high-altitude areas (1000m).