Northwest Blooms · Shrubs
Philadelphus coronarius
Mock Orange
- Family
- Hydrangeaceae
- Height
- 8 to 10 feet
- Width
- 6 to 8 feet
- Flower color
- White with a yellow center
- Foliage color
- Dark green
- Bloom time
- Late spring to early summer
- Light
- Full sun to part shade
- Water
- Moderate
- Maintenance
- Low; occasional pruning after flowering to maintain shape
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 4 to 8
- Wildlife
- Bees, butterflies, and other pollinators
About this plant
Philadelphus coronarius, commonly known as the mock orange, is a deciduous shrub celebrated for its fragrant white flowers. Blooming in late spring to early summer, its large clusters of blooms resemble orange blossoms, filling the air with a sweet, citrus-like fragrance. The plant's dark green leaves provide a lush backdrop to the blossoms, which are often used to create visually appealing hedges or focal points in gardens.
Native to southeastern Europe and western Asia, Philadelphus coronarius has been cultivated for centuries due to its ornamental value and pleasing fragrance. It adapts well to a variety of climates and has become a popular choice in gardens around the world. In addition to its beauty, it attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies, adding ecological value to landscapes.
Works well in
Sun Gardens · Foundation Plantings · Cottage Gardens · Pollinator Gardens
Companion plants
Gaura · Weigela · Salvia · Baptisia · Lilies · Mexican feather grass
Design tip
Take advantage of mock orange’s large height by giving it enough room to develop into a substantial flowering mass rather than keeping it tightly clipped. Prune only after flowering when shaping is necessary, preserving the abundant growth that creates its strongest spring display.
