One of the loveliest plants of the early summer is our Mock Orange shrub – Philadelphus  – with its clusters of showy white flowers. Name is from the delicious orangey scent that makes it attractive to bees and humans alike. Take a moment to smell the flowers.

The mock orange will flower for several weeks starting in early June. Its tall, arching branches are covered with a multitude of snow-white blossoms. The stems were used by native Americans for making arrows, bows, combs, tobacco pipes, and cradles.

Philadelphus x virginalis 

Common Name(s): Virginal Mockorange

Phonetic Spelling

fil-ah-DEL-fuss X ver-ji-NAH-lis

Description

Virginal Mock orange is a tall shrub that grows to 10 feet tall and wide and has an erect form that tends to get leggy. It is easy to grow and prefers fertile moist clay soil but is adaptable to other soils. It is tolerant of occasional drought once established. In June it blooms with clusters of white fragrant flowers. Prune immediately after flowering as it blooms on old wood. It can take severe pruning to help control its size and shape. Cultivars are available in smaller sizes.

Plant this shrub where you can enjoy the orange blossom fragrance of the blooms.