Plant Details

Description

Mock Orange is a beautiful old-fashioned favorite flowering shrub adored for the abundance of extremely fragrant white flowers that nearly cover the foliage in spring. The fragrance is reminiscent of orange blossoms, hence the name. Can be grown as a large shrub or small tree. Make sure to plant this aromatic wonder near windows, patios, decks and other outdoor living spaces where the sweet fragrance and pretty flowers can be enjoyed from close up. 

Landscape & Garden Uses

Growing 8 to 10 feet tall and 6 to 8 feet wide, Mock Orange is ideal for use as a specimen, in groupings, or as a colorful and fragrant hedge or background plant. Lower branches can be removed to form a highly attractive small tree. A fine addition to a sunny flowering shrub border, fragrance gardens, white theme gardens, cut flower gardens, and the cottage garden.

Mock Orange is exceptionally easy to grow in most any moist but well-drained soil and lots of sun. Some shade is tolerated however it will flower more profusely in full sun. Is drought tolerant once established, however will appreciate a good weekly soaking during an extended drought in the hottest part of the summer. If you see the leaves starting to wilt just give the plant a good drink. Can be pruned after flowering to control size or for shaping. Avoid pruning in fall or winter as Mock Orange blooms on old wood (the previous year's growth). Rejuvenation pruning is the favored method as it will encourage heavier budding and blooming. Every few years after flowering simply cut out about one-third of the stems starting with the largest first.