Philadelphus, also known as ‘mock orange’, is a classic garden shrub, producing a mass of white flowers every summer with a beautiful citrus scent.
Its fragrant blooms, which resemble the scent of orange blossom, attract pollinators and wildlife to gardens. With the right planting position and a little seasonal care, philadelphus shrubs will reward you with reliable flowering and healthy growth for many years to come.
How to Grow Philadelphus
Philadelphus are easy to grow in full sun or light shade, making them beginner-friendly shrubs. While some varieties can grow to a large shrub, you can contain the ultimate size by pruning immediately after flowering. This allows time to produce new shoots that will carry flowers the following year.
You can plant philadelphus at any time of year as they are container-grown shrubs, although they establish best when planted in autumn or spring. Avoid planting during periods of extreme heat or when the ground is frozen.
Philadelphus Planting Guide:
- Dig a hole deep enough to take the rootball, and twice the width
- Add compost to the surrounding soil
- Water in well and keep moist if planting in spring and summer
- As the plant grows, cut away any damaged flowers and leaves to encourage new growth
Mulching in philadelphus shrubs is important, as it helps to retain ground moisture near the newly planted shrub. Keep mulch slightly away from the main stem to prevent excess moisture building around the base of the shrub.
Feeding & Watering Advice
Once established, philadelphus shrubs are relatively drought tolerant and are unlikely to need watering unless planted in soil that is very free-draining, or if there is a prolonged period of drought. Newly planted shrubs should be watered regularly during their first growing season to help roots establish properly.
If planted in poor soil, a general-purpose fertiliser can be applied in spring to give plants a boost. Alternatively, applying a mulch of organic matter improves soil conditions and adds nutrients. Feeding annually in spring encourages healthy foliage and strong flowering later in the season. Avoid excessive feeding with high-nitrogen fertilisers, as this can encourage leafy growth at the expense of flowers.
Philadelphus are a deciduous shrub, so they shed their leaves in winter. After flowering, lightly prune stems to maintain a tidy shape and encourage vigorous new growth for the following year’s flowers.
Where to Plant Philadelphus for the Best Impact
Philadelphus looks best when planted where its beautiful citrus fragrance can be fully appreciated. To let the scent drift through the garden, position shrubs near patios, seating areas or entrances.
Larger varieties work well planted at the back of borders with a mix of shrubs, while more compact types are ideal for smaller gardens and courtyard spaces. Their arching branches with masses of white flowers can also make an attractive informal hedge feature.
Philadelphus combines beautifully with roses, lavender and other garden favourites to create a relaxed, traditional planting style. The crisp white flowers also contrast well against darker foliage plants and evergreens, helping brighten borders and create a fresh summer display.
Things to Watch For
Philadelphus shrubs are generally free from diseases. Poor flowering may occur if shrubs are planted in shade or pruned at the wrong time of year. Pruning immediately after flowering helps ensure plenty of blooms the following summer.
Philadelphus can grow well in any good garden soil in both sheltered or exposed locations, but can struggle in heavy clay.
Why Choose Philadelphus?
Philadelphus is loved for its reliability, easy-care nature, and highly fragrant blooms. Whether planted as a part of a mixed border or an informal hedge, philadelphus brings structure, scent, and seasonal interest to the garden year after year.
Explore our range of philadelphus shrubs today at your local Tates of Sussex and find the perfect variety for your garden!
You can also check out our latest Plant of the Week feature on philadelphus, available to watch now on our YouTube channel.
Tips, Information & Advice
