Philadelphus “Belle Etoile”

Mock Orange
Philadelphus “Belle Etoile”
Type: Deciduous Shrub
Exposure: Sun / Part Shade
Water: Regular

This popular, vase-shaped shrub that quickly grows 6ft (1.8m) tall by 8ft (2.4m) wide is prized for its deliciously fragrant flowers that often signal the arrival of summer. These blooms have four white or cream colored petals that are crinkly and look almost like they’re made of crepe paper. These are typically an inch or two wide, (2.5-5cm), and are accented by a purple splotch in the center and creamy yellow stamens. It’s best to prune the old wood out of these every year after blooming; you can even cut it right to the ground to rejuvenate it. There are other varieties of mock orange available, featuring variegated leaves, yellow foliage, plants suited to hotter climates ( e.g. Southern California), and double flowering varieties. Butterflies only seem interested in the single flowered types, though.

Fun Fact: “Belle Etoile” means “Beautiful Star.” I know this because they made me take French in grade 6.

Cheers,

John