Items 1 to 12 of 12 total
Items 1 to 12 of 12 total
Mock Orange
Uses:
- Garden Borders
- Thriller in Container Gardens
- Sensory Gardens
Features:
- Unique Fragrant Flowers
- Deer Resistant
- Drought Tolerant
Sunlight:
- Partial Sun to Full Sun
- 5+ Hours of Direct Sun
Growing Zones:
- 4-7
- What is My Zone?
Mock orange shrubs are cherished for their fragrant, white, citrus-scented flowers that bloom abundantly in late spring to early summer, bringing a delightful aroma to the garden. These deciduous shrubs are excellent as stand-alone specimens, in mixed borders, or as part of a flowering hedge, providing both visual and olfactory appeal.
About Mock Orange
Genus
Species
Family
Philadelphus
Various species, including Philadelphus coronarius (the most common)
Ericaceae
Common Names:
Sweet Mock Orange, Syringa
Native To:
Europe, North America, and parts of Asia
Plant Type:
Bushes
Foliage Type:
Deciduous
USDA Plant Hardiness Zone:
4–8
Flower Color:
White to pinkish flowers
Flower Bloom Time:
Late spring to early summer
Growth Habit:
Upright, arching branches with a bushy habit
Attracts:
Bees, butterflies, and other pollinators
Tolerates:
Partial to full shade, moist, acidic, and well-drained soils.
Resists:
Deer
How To Use Mock Orange In The Garden
Mock orange (Philadelphus spp.) is known for its many white, citrus-scented flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer, smelling similar to real orange blossoms. This deciduous shrub typically reaches 3 to 10 feet high, depending on the variety, and has several uses in landscape design. Many gardeners appreciate its adaptability to different soil types and its resistance to common pests and diseases.
Its dense growth habit makes it suitable for use as a privacy screen or hedge, providing both visual and aromatic benefits. Planting Mock orange near patios or walkways allows its delicious fragrance to be fully appreciated. Additionally, smaller cultivars are well-suited for container gardening, allowing those with limited space to enjoy its delightful blooms. The shrub's flowers also attract pollinators, supporting local biodiversity.
Mock Orange Care
Position Mock orange in full sun to partial shade with at least 4 hours of direct sunlight for optimal blooming. During the establishment phase, maintain consistent soil moisture, watering deeply once a week and increasing frequency during dry spells. Incorporate compost or well-rotted manure into the soil at planting time, and apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer each spring to support growth and flowering.
Mock orange shrubs bloom on the previous year's growth and should be pruned immediately after flowering by cutting back shoots to a strong bud. These shrubs have excellent cold hardiness, but can benefit from a layer of mulch around the base to help insulate roots during colder months. When growing mock orange in containers, select a pot with adequate drainage and use a high-quality potting mix. Place the container in full to part sun, and water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist.
Learn More About Mock Orange
