Sweet Mockorange

Sweet Mockorange, Fragrant Mockorange, or Philadelphus coronarius, is a deciduous shrub that blooms white cross shaped flowers from spring through summer.  These blooms look similar to an orange blossom, which is why it gets its common name Mockorange.  They also produce a wonderful fragrance, so place these hedges in a location where you can smell them easily in the evening.  They are useful for cottage gardens, foundation planting, attracting butterflies, or as privacy screening.  The only negative aspect of this plant is that there is not much to it during it’s out of bloom season, however it is drought and wind tolerant so it’s placement can be more easily chosen.    It is 10-12 ft. tall and 8-10ft. wide.  It needs full sun with partial shade, medium amounts of water, and well-drained soil.  It is shipped in a 1-gallon container.