Sweet Mock Orange (Philadelphus coronarius)

Tough native American perennial shrub growing to 10 feet (m) that in early summer burst into masses of beautiful white blooms with the scent of orange blossoms. Blooms often cover the whole bush and can last for several weeks. Hardy zones 4-8 it prefers full sun but is not fussy about soil type and in its native range is often used in restoration projects because of its ability to hold poor thin soils together and stabilized steep rocky slopes. Is drought tolerant once established and takes very little care unless grown as a hedge. Seeds are quite small and need a period of moist stratification before they will germinate but shrubs are a delight in almost any location and the blooms attract butterflies and hummingbirds .

Seeds need a period of 30 days moist stratification before they will germinate. All our seeds are kept cold so seeds already think its winter. Refer to our Stratification Instructions to determine the best method for you. For refridgerator stratification we recommend using the Egg Box Method using a transparent plastic egg box. Use a sterile seeding mix and spread the seeds carefully on the surface.
Seeds need light to germinate so do not cover seeds.
Once stratification is complete the egg box can be placed in a warm location with good light. Keep the soil moist they are very tiny and dry out quickly. If using a egg box make sure the soil is always moist as it dries out fast in the small dimples. The egg box lid will help to keep moisture in and the sterile soil will help prevent any mold or damping off issues.
Seeds often take 2-3 weeks to germinate and grow slowly to begin with. Transplant to individual pots once they are large enough to handle and have at least one pair of true leaves. Grow on until about 4-6 inches (10-15cm) tall before planting out in final location. Protect from wildlife until established enough to not get eaten.

Tough Native American perennial shrub needs little care once established. Hardy zones 4-8.
Light. Prefers full sun but can tolerate some light shade in zones 7b and 8. More shade is not desirable as it inhibits flowering. Plant in well lit location and remove trees and shrubs that grow to overshadow it or flowers will vanish. In zone 8 some shade may be needed as does not do well in very hot areas.

Soil. Its not fussy about soil type but it must be well drained. Cannot tolerate wet soils. Can do quite well or poor soils and is sometimes used in restoration projects on steep, rocky, unstable slopes within its native ranges. The roots are strong and will tie soils together making it ideal for unstable areas.

Water. Needs water until established then unless there is a prolonged drought its usually fine. During long drought some additional water may be needed otherwise with regular rainfall it needs little or no care.

Pruning. Flowers on last years wood so if pruning is desired do so after the plant has flowered and before new growth is complete. For the most part shrubs need little pruning unless using as a hedge or screen

With the amount of flowers this plant produces of course it attracts pollinators with large numbers of butterflies, bees and hummingbirds. The sweet aroma of the flowers and the rich nectar can also attract other wildlife to snack on the blooms so it may need protection if you area has a lot of deer or elk.
This plant is a food source for the Achemon sphinx, and Nessus sphinx moths.

Recent research has established the leaves have antibacterial properties and extracts can effectively kill Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. It is being researched as a possible additive for use in topical applications for antimicrobial therapy.

As a soap. The crushed leaves can be mixed with water to produce a lather that is an effective cleaner for washing clothes and skin. Leaves can be used directly by vigorous rubbing with water to clean the skin and hands of dirt but not very effective on oils. This makes it good for not removing the bodies natural oils but ineffective against unwanted oils.
Native Americans used the wood to make arrows.
The beautiful aromatic flowers make wonderful cut blooms that are often used in bridal bouquets. The flower are also used to make perfumes.

Mock Orange, English Dogwood, Mockorange. Fragrant Mockorange, Golden Mock Orange, Sweet Mockorange