Philadelphus coronarius, commonly known as Mock Orange, is a deciduous shrub of the family Hydrangeaceae native to Europe and North Africa. It produces straight, stiff branches and from late spring blooms appear in dense clusters of cup-shaped flowers. The flowers are brilliantly white, with yellow stamens, and are highly scented. It grows up to 12 feet tall, and once matured, it will produce hundreds of flowers at any one time – making it an outstanding addition to any landscape.
History, mythology, and religious significance
Mock Orange has long been used as an ornamental plant because of its beautiful flowers. Ancient Greek mythology referenced this plant when they explained the love tale between Cyparissus and Zephyr, the god of the west wind. The symbolism of this flower has long been associated with joy, marital fidelity, and love. In the Hindu religion, it is believed that the Mock Orange is sacred to Vishnu, the god of preservation. It is believed that its sweet scent serves as an offering to the gods. In Judaism, the ancient Hebrews saw Mock Orange as a symbol of joy and kindness.
How to plant
When planting Mock Orange, it is important to provide this plant with ample sun and moist soil. The best soil type is one that is well-drained, fertile, and rich in organic material. The ideal pH level should be between 6.0 and 7.0, and the temperature needs to be moderate. Keep the soil consistently moist and make sure to water the plant on a regular basis, especially during hot summer days. Lastly, you should fertilize your Mock Orange with a balanced fertilizer once a year, in early spring.
Meaning and symbolism
The name “Mock Orange” originally came from the old French term “mock orange” or “mocquer orange”, which literally means “deceiver orange”. The reason for this is that the scent of its white fragrant flowers is similar to that of citrus trees. The symbolism behind the Mock Orange was often associated with joy, marital fidelity, and love.
Flower varieties and their defining characteristics
Philadelphus coronarius has several cultivars, each of them offering different colors, shapes, and sizes of their distinctive cup-shaped flowers. One of the most popular varieties is ‘Aureus’, with its distinctive gold foliage and creamy white flowers. Another type is ‘Variegatus’, with its bright white flowers and pink-streaked foliage. The ‘Grandiflorus’ variety is a hardy shrub that produces large white flowers, while ‘Aurora’ has white cup-shaped flowers and silvery-green variegated foliage.
How to pot and repot
When potting a Mock Orange, it is important to select an appropriate size of the container. Make sure the pot has plenty of drainage holes and, if necessary, add a drainage layer of gravel at the bottom. Fill about half of the pot with good quality potting soil and position the plant in the pot. Then add more soil, carefully tamping it down with your hands. Water generously, but allow the soil to dry a bit between waterings. Finally, place your potted Mock Orange in a location where it will receive at least five hours of direct sunlight per day.
How to prune
Mock Orange is best pruned after flowering by removing old or dead branches. This will promote healthier, better-shaped foliage and more abundant blooms when it next flowers. Pruning and shaping should be done throughout the growing season while the plant is young and growing quickly. If pruned correctly, the plant will remain full and healthy in all dimensions. Avoid hard pruning, as this can result in damage to the plant.
How to propagate
Propagating Mock Orange is relatively easy. Cuttings can be taken from the tips of semi-hardwood. Choose stems that have been hardened for about 6 weeks, and ensure that there are several leaves on the stem. Cut the stem about 4 inches long, just below a leaf node. Dip the cut ends of the cuttings in a rooting hormone and gently insert them into a potting mix. Be sure to water the soil consistently and keep it lightly moist. When the roots start to form, the cuttings can be transplanted into larger containers.
Common pests and diseases
Mock Orange is very resistant to pests and diseases, but can be prone to fungal diseases and insect infestations. Common fungal diseases to watch out for are powdery mildew and root rot. Insects such as aphids and scale can also cause damage to the leaves, which will reduce flowering and distort the foliage. To prevent and reduce the likelihood of damage, be sure to water at soil level, avoid overcrowding your plants, and remove any dead or damaged foliage.
Three frequently asked questions about Philadelphus coronarius
Q: Does Mock Orange bloom more than once a year?
A: Yes, Mock Orange can bloom several times in one season, depending on the weather conditions and the length of the growing season.
Q: What type of soil should I use for Mock Orange?
A: Mock Orange prefers well-drained, moist soil with a neutral pH level between 6.0 and 7.0.
Q: How tall does Mock Orange grow?
A: Mock Orange can grow to a height of 12 feet or more.
Table fact sheet
| Name | Information |
|---|---|
| Mock Orange | Philadelphus coronarius |
| Family | Hydrangeaceae |
| Plant Type | Perennial |
| Mature Size | 12 feet tall |
| Sun Exposure | Full Sun |
| Soil Type | Well-drained, moist soil |
| Soil pH | 6.0 to 7.0 |
| Bloom Time | Late Spring |
| Flower Color | White with yellow stamens |
| Hardiness Zones | 3 to 8 |
| Native Area | Europe, North Africa |
| Pests & Diseases | Powdery mildew, root rot, aphids, scale |
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