Mock Orange (Philadelphus lewisii) does best in full sun to moderate shade on moist, well-drained soils. While preferring open woods and streamsides, it can also be found on moderately dry rocky slopes and bluffs. Classified as fire resistant, it will resprout from root crowns after burning and regenerate from the seed bank that builds up in the soil. It is an upright shrub with lilac-like leaves and fragrant white flowers that give the plant its name.
Classification: Perennial Key Characteristics: White flowers Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade Water Requirements: Moist soil while establishing, drought tolerant once established Ease of Growing: Moderate Growth Rate: Slow, faster once established Bloom Time: May – June Spreads: By seed, rhizome Benefits: Wildlife, Rain garden, Pollinators, Beneficial insects, Wildfire resistant, Riparian zones, On Portland Plant List, Hummingbirds Edible: No Mature Height: 6-10 feet Mature Width: 3-12 feet
Photo Credits: Image 1: Zorah Oppenheimer via Clark Conservation District Image 2: Zorah Oppenheimer via Clark Conservation District Image 3: Zorah Oppenheimer via Clark Conservation District
