An upright deciduous shrub that erupts in early summer with double pure-white flowers carrying an intense orange-blossom perfume. A classic fragrant cottage-garden shrub.
At a glance
- Plant type: Shrub
- Mature size: 2.5 m H × 2 m W
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Mock Orange
Philadelphus 'Virginal' is a moderate-growing shrub in the Hydrangeaceae family. It reaches around 2.5 m tall and 2 m wide at maturity, with deciduous foliage. White flowers appear in spring and summer.
Where to grow Mock Orange
Mock Orange suits cool-temperate and warm-temperate climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Mock Orange does best in free-draining and loamy soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Mock Orange is regular, moderate watering. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Mock Orange after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Mock Orange in the garden
Mock Orange earns its place for its fragrance, a feature or specimen planting, cut flowers for the vase and feeding bees and pollinators.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Mock Orange with other plants that enjoy the same regular, moderate watering and cool-temperate climate. Group three or five together for impact rather than dotting single plants through the garden.
Buying Mock Orange
Plant Sale lists Mock Orange as tube stock, potted plants and advanced specimens. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment we have it ready.