Philadelphus lewisii is a great choice for a shrub border, casual flowering hedges, and foundation planting.
The sweet-smelling Philadelphus lewisii shrub can be a wonderful addition to any garden. The tall, curving branches and colorful flowers make it an ideal backdrop for other plants, giving the garden a feeling of height and structure. Also, the blooms and leaves of this plant have a good amount of saponins, which can be mixed with water to create a lathering soap bar.
Common Names: Lewis’ Mock Orange, Wild Mock Orange, California Mock Orange, Mock Orange
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Philadelphus Lewisii Information
Wild Mock Orange, also known as Philadelphus lewisii, is a bush that grows in a fountain shape. It has long, bending branches covered with soft green leaves that turn yellow in the fall. During late spring to early summer, it blooms with lots of very fragrant white flowers shaped like cups. These flowers are about 2 inches wide and grow in clusters at the ends of the branches. The bush becomes completely covered in blossoms during this time. It can reach up to 5-12 feet tall and 6-12 feet wide.
The fragrance of the flowers is sweet, like orange blossoms with a hint of pineapple. When the branches are new, they are red and then turn gray as they age, with the bark peeling off in small pieces. Philadelphus lewisii is the state flower of Idaho. It’s a great plant to have as a background or as a focal point in a garden. Plant it close to paths, windows, or doors to enjoy the lovely smell of the flowers.
Propagating Philadelphus Lewisii
Philadelphus Lewisii can be grown from stem cutting and layering.
Stem Cutting:
Cut a 4-6 inches long stem cutting with several leaves below the node from a mature plant. Dip the cut ends in the rooting hormone. Plant the cuttings in a pot filled with moist potting soil. Cover the container with a plastic bag and keep it in a warm, sunny area. Maintain the soil moisture with regular watering. In several weeks, small roots will germinate. Once the roots are 1-2 inches long, move them to a bigger pot.
From Layering:
Select a healthy, low-hanging 4-inches long branch on the plant. Bend the branch down to the ground and hold it in place with a stake. Cover the branch with a few inches of potting soil. Water the soil to keep it moist. After several weeks, roots will begin to form on the branch. When the roots are 1-2 inches long, carefully cut the branch away from the parent plant.
Transplant the branch into a pot with fresh potting soil.
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Ideal Growing Conditions for Philadelphus Lewisii
Location
Philadelphus Lewisii can grow well in both full sun and partial shade. However, it flowers more profusely in direct sunlight for 5-6 hours daily.
It’s important to protect the plant from the intense afternoon sun by providing it with some partial shade.
Soil
This plant can be grown in a range of soil types. However, it will be best to use moist, well-draining soil with a pH range of 5.5-7.5.
Do remember, the plant cannot handle soggy soil. It perform best in slightly acidic soil. If the soil is excessively alkaline then add sulfur to it.
Water
This hardy shrub doesn’t need plenty of water, but regular watering in the growing season helps the healthy growth.
In the summer months, water the shrub every week or two, adjusting according to the weather. During winter, reduce watering to every couple of weeks. Keep the soil moist but not too wet, so be careful not to give it too much water.
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Philadelphus Lewisii Care
Fertilizer
Feed this shrub only once or twice a year during spring and early summer with a balanced slow-release fertilizer with an equal NPK ratio.
Do not use a fertilizer with excessive nitrogen content, as it can make the foliage yellow and restrict the growth of the plant. Keep in mind that using too much fertilizer can harm the roots and even kill the shrub.
Pruning
The flowers grow on branches from the previous year, so it’s best to prune right after the blooming season. For older plants, you can make them healthier again by cutting the old branches all the way down to the ground after they finish flowering.
Pests and Diseases
Usually, Philadelphus Lewisii doesn’t have many problems with pests or diseases. However, it’s a good idea to watch out for leaf spot, canker, powdery mildew, and rust.