Embedded Files
Imagine standing near a river in Idaho in early summer. The water is moving quickly. The air is warm, but still fresh. And somewhere nearby, there’s a soft, sweet scent you can’t quite place. If you follow it, you’ll find clusters of small white flowers growing along the edges of the water. That’s the syringa. It’s not a loud or showy flower. But once you notice it, it’s hard to forget.
This short video shares how the syringa became the state flower of Idaho and why it reflects the landscapes of the state so well.
Syringa (Mock Orange)
Syringa (Mock Orange)
Philadelphus lewisii
The syringa grows throughout Idaho, especially along streams, riverbanks, and forest edges. It’s often found in places where water and shade meet open space.
A few things that make it special:
Native to the northwestern United States
Blooms in late spring to early summer
Common along rivers and forest edges
Known for its bright white flowers and sweet, citrus-like scent
It’s a flower you might notice first by smell before you ever see it.
And once you do, it tends to stay with you.
Why It Became the State Flower
The syringa was officially adopted as the state flower of Idaho in 1931.
It was chosen because it grows naturally throughout the state and reflects Idaho’s landscapes — from river valleys to mountain forests.
The plant is also known as Lewis’ mock orange, named after Meriwether Lewis of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, who documented it during their journey through the region.
Its connection to exploration and its presence across the state made it a natural choice to represent Idaho.
Meadow & Mountain Designs
Women's Designs
Unisex Designs
Youth Designs
Canvas Totes
More State Flower Stories
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse