what's the name?

HI I'm new here so please bare with me.

My daughter and son-in law have a ( looks like a bush) growing in the corner of thier yard. I have been lookinhg everywhere for the name of it.

it stands about as tall as a lilac bush, and has branches that start from the ground,
and the leaves are very delicate (almost like a fern of some kind). and it sprouts very pretty purple flowers.

would anyone know what type of plant this is?

thank you.

 

If it looks like a lilac but has divided leaves it may be Syringa laciniata.

 

I signed up to ask a question and find myself answering one first! Sounds like a butterfly bush to me (I'm just guessing)

 

A picture would really help.

 

Without a picture it's hard to say for sure but I'd have to agree with Butterfly Bush.

 

Just a guess.... how about Vitex? Don't know if the leaves match your description of fern like. See.....

http://images.google.com/imgres?img...microsoft:en-gb:IE-SearchBox&rlz=1I7SUNA&sa=N

 

Vitex negundo var. heterophylla?
http://home-and-garden.webshots.com/photo/1016999899015073464WqaiMuuTNt

HTH
Chris

 

Does Vitex overwinter and flower in Wisconsin? Of course, although the poster is from there the shrub may be elsewhere.

 

Probably only as a resprouting perennial.....

Regards
Chris