How tall does a mock orange tree grow?
While the blooming of this lovely shrub is short (only about a week or two), you can still enjoy the dark green foliage of mock orange plants. Mock orange bushes come in many varieties, ranging in height from 4 to 8 feet (1-2 m.) or more. Mock orange shrubs are hardy in zones 4 through 8.
Is mock orange a hardy?
Mockorange is a very hardy shrub with long lasting, citrus-fragrant, white blooms in the late spring to early summer. The mockorange shrub is most appreciated for its fragrant scent and therefore best used in an area adjacent to a driveway, walkway or patio where the scent can easily be encountered.
How long does it take for a mock orange to bloom?
And while the blooming of this lovely shrub is short (only about a week or two), you can still enjoy the dark green foliage of mock orange plants. Mock orange bushes come in many varieties, ranging in height from 4-8 feet or more.
What kind of soil do mock orange shrubs like?
Mock orange shrubs like organically rich soil. They can tolerate a wide range of soil types—including sandy, clay, and loamy soils—as long as they have good drainage. Moreover, they do best with an acidic to neutral soil pH. These shrubs prefer moist but not soggy soil.
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How quickly do mock orange grow?
around 2 feet per yearMock orange shrubs have a fairly quick growth rate and can gain around 2 feet per year. They are best planted in the early fall but also can be planted in the spring.
How tall and wide does mock orange grow?
The true species reaches a mature height of about 12 feet and can span 8 feet wide as a large shrub. Cultivar sizes vary.
Are mock orange roots invasive?
While murraya paniculata (also known as orange jessamine, orange jasmine, or mock orange) is considered as an invasive species in many areas, present cultivars of Murraya paniculata do not have invasive root systems.
How tall do mock orange trees get?
Mock Orange Plants Mock orange bushes come in many varieties, ranging in height from 4 to 8 feet (1-2 m.) or more.
Does mock orange make a good hedge?
The blooms make great cut flowers in bouquets indoors, scenting the whole house. In the garden its large size makes it a good addition to shrub borders, informal hedges and specimen plantings.
What does mock orange look like in winter?
Appearance Through the Seasons. Mock orange is a deciduous plant, losing all of it leaves in winter. In early spring the leaf buds begin to swell and the leaves slowly emerge, followed by the flowers in late spring. A second, lighter crop of flowers sometimes appears in midsummer.
How do you shape a mock orange bush?
When cutting back mock orange shrubs, cut back the branches with spent bloom about 1/3 to 2/3 their length. Also, cut out any old or dead wood back to the ground. Branches that are crowded or crossing should also be cut to open up the center of the plant to air, sunlight, and rain water.
How long does it take for mock orange to bloom?
This lovely mock orange, known as Snow White Sensation, blooms first in late spring or early summer and again in late summer. It's one of a number of exciting new cultivars of Philadelphus virginalis.
Will mock orange grow in shade?
BEST CONDITIONS TO GROW PHILADELPHUS (MOCK ORANGE) Mock Orange grow well on a wide variety of soils from heavy clay to light well-drained soils. They put down deep roots so are rarely affected by drought. They do prefer a full sun or partial shade position if they are to produce the best flowers.
Is mock orange a climber?
Anyone seeking an exceptionally hardy, carefree deciduous shrub or climber that produces abundant fragrant flowers will fall in love with Philadelphus Mock Orange.
Do mock oranges bear fruit?
Called the mock orange because, although it does not produce edible fruit, the scent of its blooms is reminiscent of orange blossoms. The flowers attract bees and butterflies, but the bushes tend to get leggy, even scraggly. Cutting them back to the ground can rejuvenate these plants.
Can mock orange be a tree?
Growing Requirements for a Mock Orange tree Mock Orange trees are hardy in USDA zones 3-9. Mock Orange should be grown where they will receive full sun or light shade, except in hot summer regions, where they will require shade in the afternoon.
How fast does a mock orange grow?
They are rich with nectar that attracts butterflies and other pollinators. Mock orange shrubs have a fairly quick growth rate and can gain around 2 feet per year.
When do mock oranges bloom?
It sports oval, serrated, dark green leaves. And it features showy, cup-shaped, four-petaled flowers in the late spring and early summer that stretch roughly 1 to 2 inches across.
What kind of soil do mock oranges like?
Mock orange shrubs like organically rich soil. They can tolerate a wide range of soil types—including sandy, clay, and loamy soils—as long as they have good drainage. Moreover, they do best with an acidic to neutral soil pH.
How do I grow mock oranges?
Use compost, bark humus, or manure when planting mock orange. Then, for annual feedings in the late spring, add a layer of compost around the shrub, working it into the soil. Do not use a nitrogen-rich fertilizer. It can significantly increase leaf growth, which can hinder or even stop blossom growth. 1 .
Do mock oranges need winter protection?
Mock orange shrubs are hardy to the cold weather within their growing zones and typically don’t need winter protection. They will appreciate some extra water and protection from harsh afternoon sun in excessive heat. Humidity typically isn’t an issue for these plants.
Can mock oranges be planted in groups?
Just make sure their planting site has good drainage, as being waterlogged is not something these shrubs can tolerate. Maintenance is generally very simple for mock orange shrubs.
How tall does a mock orange grow?
Philadelphus coronarius is an imported mock orange species, native to southern Europe and well-suited for cultivation across the western U.S. The species grows in an upright fashion to an average height of 8 to 10 feet. "Avalanche" is a smaller cultivar that only reaches 3.5 feet tall. "Belle Etoile" grows to a more moderate height of about 6 feet. "Virginal" is a particularly fragrant heirloom variety that can grow to 10 feet tall.
What is a mock orange?
Mock oranges (Philadelphus spp.) are a class of deciduous landscape shrubs featuring fragrant white flowers in spring. The blooms resemble orange blossoms in both appearance and fragrance, hence the common name. Heirloom varieties were popular in Victorian gardens, and new cultivars have been introduced in recent years.
How big does a Philadelphus lewisii get?
Philadelphus lewisii species are native to the western U.S. and Canada. The true species reaches a mature height of about 12 feet and can span 8 feet wide as a large shrub. Cultivar sizes vary. "Cheyenne" will mature to an average height of 6 to 9 feet and width of 5 to 8 feet.
What to add to soil for mock oranges?
If your soil is heavily sandy or clay-dense, incorporating organic matter prior to planting will help balance drainage and moisture retention, thus supporting the health, size and vigor of your mock orange. These amendments include finished compost, humus, aged manure, peat moss and chopped pine bark.
How big do sage plants get?
The mature size will depend on the variety you grow and cultural conditions, ranging on average from 3 to 12 feet tall and wide .
Where should I plant mock oranges?
Plant your mock orange where it will receive full sun or light shade. Most mock orange varieties tolerate a fairly wide range of soil conditions but will perform best when grown in organically rich soil that drains well but retains moisture.
Can you prune a mock orange?
If your mock orange becomes less productive or grows out of bounds, you can prune it heavily, also after spring bloom season. Cutting back one quarter of old canes to the ground can rejuvenate a mock orange. Lynn Cochran is a professional writer and contributing author to the educational website, Gardening Carolina.
How tall do mock orange bushes get?
Mock orange bushes come in many varieties, ranging in height from 4 to 8 feet (1-2 m.) or more.
What is a mock orange shrub?
For stunning citrus fragrance in the garden, you can’t go wrong with the mock orange shrub ( Philadelphus virginalis ). This late spring-blooming deciduous bush looks great when placed in the border, used in groups as screening, or simply as a stand alone specimen plant. They even make excellent cut flowers indoors.
What zone do mock oranges grow in?
Mock orange shrubs are hardy in zones 4 through 8. They enjoy areas with full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. Adding compost to the soil will help improve most issues. When planting mock orange bushes, dig your planting hole deep enough to accommodate all of the roots.
When should I fertilize mock oranges?
Mock oranges are not usually heavy feeders, though a water-soluble, all-purpose fertilizer may be used in late winter/early spring as needed if you feel the plant is not growing as well as it should. Annual pruning will keep the plant looking good and help with maintaining its shape.
Do mock oranges need water?
Your mock orange shrub will require consistent moisture until it’s established, and though it is somewhat drought tolerant, the bush prefers to be kept in moist conditions. Mulching the area around the shrub will help the soil retain moisture and minimize watering needs.
What Is A Mock Orange?
The mock orange plant ( Philadelphus coronarius) is a beautiful deciduous shrub of the Hydrangaceae family. These plants go by a few different names and are also known as sweet mock orange, golden mock orange, fragrant mock orange, or English dogwood.
How To Grow A Mock Orange
Mock orange shrubs can be grown from seeds planted in the late winter or spring. You will need to cold stratify fresh seeds for 6 to 8 weeks to break their dormancy and stimulate germination.
Uses
This is a great shrub for borders and foundations, although it has limited interest outside of the flowering season. It is especially wonderful as an addition to a perfume garden.
How big is a mock orange shrub?
Up to 12 feet tall and 9 feet wide. Native to the American Northwest, one of the largest mock orange shrubs. Worth making room for because of its prolific snow-white blossoms and sweet pineapple-like scent.
What is a mock orange bush?
Use mock orange bushes as specimen plants, massed along a border, or as a loose privacy hedge. Smaller cultivars work well in perennial gardens and can also be grown in containers. Excellent for cut flowers.
How big do sage bushes get?
Height and spread: 5 to 6 feet tall, 3 to 4 feet wide. Still one of the best, offering a long bloom period and a compact, graceful form. The large flowers feature prominent yellow stamens and maroon centers.
Do mock oranges grow in borders?
Many are also smaller, so they won’t overtake your garden beds and borders.
When do mock oranges bloom?
They appear in late spring and summer against a smart backdrop of dark green, often arching foliage.
How to keep mock oranges in shape?
To keep mock orange shrubs in shape, cut back the shoots after flowering, down to a strong bud. Flowers appear on stems from the previous season’s growth, so if you have to hard prune an older, established philadelphus, be prepared to lose out on the flowers for a year or so while it recovers.
When should I plant mock oranges?
Plant mock orange in spring or autumn, when the soil is warm and moist. Dig a generous hole, adding a spadeful of well-rotted compost and a sprinkling of mycorrhizal fungi. Back fill the hole, firm the soil and water in well. Mulch with organic matter such as garden compost or well rotted manure to help retain moisture.
What is the foliage color of a Philadelphus?
Philadelphus coronarius ‘Aureus’ – the foliage of this philadelphus is a limey-golden green when young, giving it an added zing. Flowers are white and scented. Needs shelter from strong sun. H x S: 2m x 2.5m. Buy Philadelphus coronarius ‘Aureus’ from Dobies.
Do mock oranges grow well in pots?
Some compact varieties are available for smaller gardens, and plants grow well in pots. Despite their delicate appearance, mock oranges are surprisingly tough, coping well in coastal and exposed areas.
Is mock orange a wonder?
Mock orange is sometimes considered to be a one-hit wonder, as it fades into insignificance once the flowers have gone over. But, if you have room, it’s worth including in the garden as its flowers are so abundant and their scent so intoxicating, especially early in the morning and in the evening. The single-flowered varieties also attract bees ...
How long does it take for mock oranges to grow?
If you used cells or trays to root your cuttings in, transplant into a one-gallon pot once your little mock orange babies have sprouted several new leaves and are growing well, after about one and a half to two months.
What is the name of the flower that smells like a mock orange?
Referring to plants by the common name “mock orange” can be a little confusing, since members of the Philadelphus genus and Pittosporum tobria, another sweet smelling bloomer claim this name. These are different plants, so be sure to double check the genus before buying a shrub at the nursery!
Why is Philadelphus called mock orange?
Horticulturalists can’t decide, but it’s commonly known as mock orange for its white, citrus-scented blooms that even look somewhat similar to orange flowers. Photo by Sylvia Dekker.
How tall is a snowflake?
‘Miniature Snowflake’ is a dwarf variety, well suited to cooler regions, as it’s hardy in Zones 4-8. With a mature height of just two to three feet tall, this compact type is well suited to smaller yards, or container gardening.
Can you dig up an orange shrub?
From Suckers. Mock orange shrubs often put out suckers that you can dig up and plant elsewhere. During the fall or winter when the shrub is dormant, use a sharp shovel to make a clean cut to separate it from the parent plant, and dig up the sucker to rehome it elsewhere in your garden.
Can mock oranges grow quickly?
Mock oranges are easy to care for, and they can grow very quickly in the right conditions. Luckily, these fragrant bloomers are like an old grandmother with a large gaggle of noisy grandkids. In other words, the sweet, old fashioned mock orange shrub is tolerant. Photo by Sylvia Dekker.
Introduction
Mockorange is a very hardy shrub with long lasting, citrus-fragrant, white blooms in the late spring to early summer.
About mock oranges
The mockorange shrub is most appreciated for its fragrant scent and therefore best used in an area adjacent to a driveway, walkway or patio where the scent can easily be encountered. It has a naturally vase-shaped appearance, but can be pruned annually to encourage a dense form. The pure white blooms of mock orange are fragrant and lasting.
Special features of mock oranges
Philadelphus x virginalis 'Virginal' has attractive, white, double flowers with an outstanding fragrance in the late spring to early summer season on a 6 to 8 foot tall shrub.
Choosing a site to grow mock oranges
Choose a site with full sun for best growth and prolific flowering. This shrub needs plenty of space to grow and spread. Though it is tolerant of a wide range of soils, it performs best in well-drained locations. Use it as a background shrub or as a specimen plant. Just be sure to locate it where you can enjoy the sweet fragrance.
Planting Instructions
Plant container-grown nursery plants from spring through fall. Prepare the garden bed by using a garden fork or tiller to loosen the soil to a depth of 12 to 15 inches, then mix in a 2- to 4-inch layer of compost. Dig a hole twice the diameter of the pot the plant is in.
Ongoing Care
Mockorange benefits from regular renewal or rejuvenation pruning. The process typically involves removing one-fifth to one-third of the oldest and largest stems at ground level. Cutting the larger stems encourages vigorous growth from the ground, making the shrub full from the bottom up.

Description
Nomenclature
- As the \"mock\" in its name suggests, mock orange is not a true orange. But the citrusy smell of its blossoms is enough to invite comparison and inspire the common name. In the world of common plant names, \"false\" typically indicates that one plant is similar in some way to another while being, nonetheless, botanically distinct from it. Another example is false cypress.
Uses
- Mock orange plants are at their most attractive in spring. Unfortunately, they do not have much to offer during other times of the year and are not ornamental enough to qualify as specimen plants. Massed along a border, they can form a loose privacy hedge for summer. The blossoms are often used as cut flowers. The fragrance is a major selling point for mock orange shrubs, bu…
Culture
- The mock orange shrub likes moist, well-draining soil. If you are planting your own mock orange shrubs, dig a deep hole. You'll need to accommodate all of the roots and spread them out. They are reasonably drought-tolerant shrubs once established. Don't let the soil dry out but avoid soaking it. These plants have a robust root system, so watering occasionally for older plants is fi…
Cultivation
- These plants are fully winter hardy. They do not require winter protection and can tolerate below freezing temperatures. They blossom in the spring. Use compost, bark humus, or manure when planting mock orange. In late spring, you can add more compost around the plant. Do not use a nitrogen-rich fertilizer. It can significantly increase leaf growth, which will hinder, or even stop, bl…
Results
- Even if a mock orange becomes wildly overgrown, all is not lost, because the shrub, if healthy, will respond well to drastic rejuvenation pruning. In this case, prune in the spring before new growth begins, pruning all of the branches right down to the ground. You will not enjoy blossoms for that year, but all of the plant's energy will be channeled into the healthy new branches that will soon b…