Mock Orange
Philadelphus coronarius
Family: Hydrangeaceae · Also called English Dogwood, Sweet Mock Orange, Philadelphus caucasicus, Syringa alba, Syringa suaveolens
Floral · Spring–Summer bloomer
Mock orange earns its name with one of the most convincing scent mimicries in the plant world, its pure white, four-petaled flowers produce a fragrance almost identical to orange blossom. This deciduous shrub explodes into bloom in early summer, covering itself in cascades of fragrant white flowers that scent the surrounding air for weeks.
memory, brotherly love, deceit
In the Victorian language of flowers, mock orange means “Memory and fond recollection”. Named 'Philadelphus' for Ptolemy II Philadelphus, the Egyptian pharaoh. The 'mock' in its name refers to its convincing imitation of orange blossom fragrance. In cottage gardens, it has been a staple for centuries, valued for its ability to perfume an entire garden during early summer.
Did You Know?
Despite smelling like citrus, mock orange is not related to oranges at all, it belongs to the hydrangea family. The wood was historically used to make pipe stems and combs. Some cultivars have lost their fragrance through breeding for larger flowers, always smell before buying.
Rocky hillsides and woodland edges of southeastern Europe and Asia Minor
Mock Orange is native to Southern Europe. It naturally grows in rocky hillsides and woodland edges of southeastern europe and asia minor.
Scent Profile
“A rich, orange-blossom sweetness with jasmine undertones, the scent earned its name by perfectly mimicking citrus flowers.”
Quick Reference
- Scientific NamePhiladelphus coronarius
- FamilyHydrangeaceae
- Native ToSouthern Europe
- Bloom SeasonSpring–Summer
- LifespanPerennial
Cultural Significance
Named 'Philadelphus' for Ptolemy II Philadelphus, the Egyptian pharaoh. The 'mock' in its name refers to its convincing imitation of orange blossom fragrance. In cottage gardens, it has been a staple for centuries, valued for its ability to perfume an entire garden during early summer.