Mock Orange
One of the really outstanding late spring to early summer flowering deciduous shrubs is mock orange, Philadelphus virginalis. Of the many species of mock orange this is by far the most popular. Its popularity is due in part to its very pleasant fragrance and attractive white flowers.
The citrus orange-like fragrance of the mock orange varies by variety, so it's wise, if possible to select them when they are in bloom. The pure white flowers range from single, semi-double to fully double and up to 2 inches across.
Plant size varies also, from varieties that grow only 3 to 4 feet high to some that may attain a height of up to 8 feet or more. (The native species P. gordonianus, grows up to 20 feet high.) The range in plant sizes also makes it possible to successfully use them in many parts of the landscape. Its fresh bright green foliage is an attractive background for its pure white flowers. This in part, along with its fragrance, is why this is such a popular plant with flower arrangers. The rather stiff, yet graceful branches and prolific flowers are excellent as indoor cut flowers.
Copyright 1995 - 2012 Ed Hume Enterprises. All rights reserved.
Votes:10
Comments: 0