Growing Mock Orange (Philadelphus) for Fragrant June Blooms

Pronunciation: fil-uh-del'fuss

Mock orange blooms in June with an intoxicating orange blossom fragrance. Upright, arching growth habit.

Culture

Plant in full sun or part shade in average, well-drained garden soil. Space 6 feet apart. Fertilize lightly once yearly in early spring with organic fertilizer. Few insect or disease problems.

Growth Rate

Fast—25+ inches per year under good conditions.

Suggested Uses

Combine with lilacs (Syringa) for a fragrant shrubbery, in mixed borders, or any fragrance garden.

Pruning

When mature, remove a few oldest canes at ground level each year in late winter/early spring. To shape, cut back flowered shoots to strong buds right after bloom.