Mock Orange Varieties: The Ultimate Guide To Choosing The Best One For Your Garden

Mock Orange Varieties: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best One for Your Garden

Mock oranges (Philadelphus) are a group of deciduous shrubs that are known for their fragrant white flowers. They are native to North America, Europe, and Asia, and there are over 60 species and cultivars available.

Mock oranges are a popular choice for gardens because they are easy to care for, drought-tolerant, and deer-resistant. They also have a long bloom period, typically from late spring to early summer.

If you are looking for a beautiful and fragrant shrub for your garden, a mock orange is a great option. There are many different varieties to choose from, so you can find one that is perfect for your needs.

In this blog post, we will discuss the different varieties of mock orange, their characteristics, and how to choose the best one for your garden.

What is a mock orange?

A mock orange is a deciduous shrub that is native to North America, Europe, and Asia. It is a member of the Hydrangeaceae family, which also includes hydrangeas and snowbells.

Mock oranges are known for their fragrant white flowers, which bloom in late spring to early summer. They are also a popular choice for gardens because they are easy to care for, drought-tolerant, and deer-resistant.

Different varieties of mock orange

There are over 60 species and cultivars of mock orange available. Some of the most popular varieties include:

• Philadelphus coronarius (common mock orange): This is the most common variety of mock orange. It is a large shrub that can grow up to 10 feet tall. It has white flowers with a strong citrus scent.
• Philadelphus x virginalis (Minnesota snowflake): This variety is known for its large, double flowers. The flowers are white with a hint of pink.
• Philadelphus lemoinei (Lemoine's mock orange): This variety is known for its fragrant flowers and colorful foliage. The flowers are white with a hint of pink. The foliage is variegated with yellow and green.
• Philadelphus 'Belle Etoile' (Belle Etoile mock orange): This variety is known for its long bloom period. The flowers are white with a hint of pink. They bloom from late spring to early summer.
• Philadelphus 'Avalanche' (Avalanche mock orange): This variety is known for its large, white flowers. The flowers are very fragrant.

How to choose the best mock orange for your garden

When choosing a mock orange for your garden, there are a few factors to consider:

• Size: Mock oranges can range in size from small shrubs to large trees. Choose a variety that will fit the space you have available.
• Hardiness: Mock oranges are generally hardy in USDA zones 5-9. However, there are some varieties that are hardy in colder zones.
• Fragrance: Mock oranges are known for their fragrant flowers. If you want a shrub with a strong scent, choose a variety that is known for its fragrance.
• Foliage: Some mock oranges have colorful foliage. If you want a shrub with colorful leaves, choose a variety with variegated foliage.

Caring for mock oranges

Mock oranges are relatively easy to care for. They need full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. They are drought-tolerant, but they will do better if they are watered regularly during the summer.

Mock oranges should be pruned in late winter or early spring. Prune to remove dead or diseased branches and to shape the shrub.

Conclusion

Mock oranges are a beautiful and fragrant addition to any garden. There are many different varieties to choose from, so you can find one that is perfect for your needs. With proper care, mock oranges will thrive for many years to come.

To learn more about mock orange varieties, visit Garden Wiki.

FAQ of mock orange varieties

Q: What are some of the most popular mock orange varieties?

A: Some of the most popular mock orange varieties include:

• Philadelphus 'Avalanche': This variety is known for its large, white flowers and strong fragrance. It is a fast grower and can reach up to 6 feet tall.
• Philadelphus 'Belle Etoile': This variety has single, white flowers with a purple center. It is a compact shrub that grows to about 4 feet tall.
• Philadelphus 'Virginal': This variety has double, white flowers that are very fragrant. It is a large shrub that can reach up to 8 feet tall.
• Philadelphus 'Manteau d'Hermine': This variety has double, white flowers that are arranged in pompom-like clusters. It is a compact shrub that grows to about 4 feet tall.
• Philadelphus 'Lemoinei': This variety has pale green leaves and white flowers with a yellow center. It is a small shrub that grows to about 3 feet tall.

Q: What are the different types of mock orange?

A: There are two main types of mock orange: deciduous and evergreen. Deciduous mock oranges lose their leaves in the fall, while evergreen mock oranges keep their leaves year-round.

Q: How do I choose the right mock orange variety for my garden?

A: When choosing a mock orange variety, there are a few factors to consider, such as:

• Size: Mock oranges come in a variety of sizes, so you need to choose one that will fit in your garden.
• Hardiness: Mock oranges are hardy in USDA zones 5-9, so you need to choose one that will be able to withstand the cold winters in your area.
• Fragrance: Some mock oranges are more fragrant than others, so if you want a plant with a strong scent, be sure to choose one that is known for its fragrance.
• Sunlight: Mock oranges need full sun to partial shade, so you need to choose one that will get enough sunlight in your garden.

Q: How do I care for a mock orange plant?

A: Mock oranges are relatively easy to care for. They need well-drained soil and regular watering. They should be fertilized in the spring and fall. Mock oranges are also susceptible to pests and diseases, so it is important to inspect them regularly and take steps to control any problems.

Q: How do I propagate a mock orange plant?

A: Mock oranges can be propagated by seed, cuttings, or layering. Seed propagation is not very successful, so cuttings or layering are the best methods.

Q: Where can I buy a mock orange plant?

A: Mock orange plants are available at most garden centers. You can also find them online.

Image of mock orange varieties

1. Charles Joly - This variety has large, fragrant white flowers that bloom in late spring.
2. Pink Perfume - This variety has pink flowers that bloom in early summer.
3. Sauce Hollandaise - This variety has creamy yellow flowers that bloom in late spring.
4. Newport - This variety has white flowers that bloom in late spring.
5. Plena - This variety has double white flowers that bloom in late spring.
6. Scented Snow - This variety has white flowers that bloom in early summer.
7. Angel Wings - This variety has white flowers with a pink blush that bloom in late spring.
8. Innocence - This variety has white flowers that bloom in late spring.
9. Pink Perfection - This variety has pink flowers that bloom in early summer.
10. Golden Showers - This variety has yellow flowers that bloom in late spring.