Sweet Mock Orange
philadelphus coronarius
Also known as: ["Mock Orange","Syrian Mock Orange"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub known for its highly fragrant white flowers and glossy green foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","seasonal color change"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Cornales |
| Family: | Hydrangeaceae |
| Genus: | Philadelphus |
| Botanical Name: | Philadelphus coronarius |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: garden border or mixed shrubbery
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining loamy soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually, immediately after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates light shade but may produce fewer blooms.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun if moved from shade; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent leaf scorch.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; avoid intense midday sun in summer; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep roots; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-drained, fertile loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter; avoid compacted soil.
Temperature
Prefers temperate climates (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates cold down to -20°F (-29°C) but thrives in moderate temperatures.
Protect from frost in early spring; avoid placing in drafty areas; maintain consistent temperatures for flowering.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize in spring and after flowering; use a balanced formula; water before and after application.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings in late spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant when rooted.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is flexible but mature enough to root.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–75°F or 18–24°C).
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagator, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Take cuttings in the morning; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of old stems and deadheading spent flowers; shape as needed.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage flowering, and remove dead or weak growth. Best done after flowering to preserve blooms.
Tools
Sharp bypass pruners, loppers for thicker stems, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Prune after flowering; remove dead/diseased wood; thin crowded stems; shape lightly; clean tools.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; trim roots if needed; position plant; water well; place in shade for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Apply until water drains from the bottom, then allow the soil to dry before the next watering.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once per week during spring and summer, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and drainage; incorporate perlite or sand if soil is heavy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in extreme heat; dieback or delayed growth in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause root damage or delayed bud development, especially in poorly drained soil.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect from harsh winds; ensure well-drained soil to prevent frost heave.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Choose balanced fertilizer; apply in spring/after flowering; water before and after; avoid late-season feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring before new growth. Apply again after flowering. Avoid over-fertilizing, especially in late summer.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPhiladelphus coronarius is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects or physiological impacts from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicPhiladelphus coronarius is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects or physiological impacts from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicPhiladelphus coronarius, commonly known as sweet mock-orange, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no significant toxic effects or physiological impacts reported from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Philadelphus coronarius?
A: Water deeply once a week, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Sweet Mock Orange attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its fragrant flowers.
Q: When does Philadelphus coronarius bloom?
A: It typically blooms in late spring to early summer, producing highly fragrant white flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Hydrangeaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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