Sweet Mock Organe (Philadelphus coronarius)

Sweet mock orange is a deciduous, citrus-scented tree shrub which is also known as the Philadelphus coronarius. It can grow up to a height of approximately twelve feet with a spread of the same. It has a slower growth rate, growing in the shape of a vase. However it can be pruned yearly to encourage a denser growth.

A young Sweet Mock tree can have an orange, brown or red bark which changes to tan or brown in color as the shrub matures. Its stems can be thinned out easily to expose the spectacular colored branches

The shrub produces durable, white blooms which flower for approximately three weeks in late spring. These blooms are showy and can have either double or single scented- blossoms. The blossom fragrance resembles the smell of fresh oranges and can last for a long time.

The Sweet Mock Orange shrub can do best in USDA zones of four to eight. It can be grown in moist to well-drained soils which is rich in organic manure and in full sun to partly shade. It is important to note that the shrub requires plenty of spreading space and in full sun in order to flower best. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions. However it cannot establish in waterlogged soils.

Newly planted shrubs requires mulching either by using small wood chips or shredded barks in order to retain water below the roots and also to suppress already growing weeds. It needs to be top-dressed in early spring. This can be done by applying three centimeters long to five centimeters deep layer of organic mulch and compost.

Garden Sweet mock orange cultivars require regular pruning through the removal of one fifth to a third of the largest and oldest stems at the base. It is important to note that selective pruning increases flowering and encourages fast growth.

The shrub can be used as an ornamental shrub due to its lovely blossoms and orange-like fragrant. It can be planted adjacent to walkways or driveways. It can also be planted in a row in groups as hedges or singularly.