About
Philadelphus purpurascens, the purple-bud mock orange, is a medium-sized, upright shrub with spreading, arching branches bearing dark-green, ovate leaves and, in summer, clusters of aromatic, white flowers with contrasting purple calyces. A rewarding and distinctive mock orange for a sunny, well-drained border.
About the genus
Philadelphus, the mock oranges, are deciduous shrubs with simple, opposite leaves and bowl-shaped, usually strongly fragrant, white or cream flowers borne singly or in small panicles or racemes in summer. Reliable and popular garden shrubs.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Coastal, Wildlife gardens
Native toW China
FragranceFlower
Care notes
CultivationGrow in any moderately fertile, well-drained soil in sun or semi-shade
PruningPruning group 2
PropagationPropagate by softwood or hardwood cuttings
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely) and powdery mildews