Lewis Mock Orange: A Guide to Care and Cultivation

Table of Contents

Introduction to Lewis Mock Orange Plant

Lewis Mock Orange is a type of shrub with beautiful fragrant flowers that bloom in late spring or early summer. It is a member of the Philadelphus family, which includes around 60 different species. Lewis Mock Orange is native to Western North America and gets its name from Meriwether Lewis, who discovered it during the Lewis and Clark expedition.

What is Lewis Mock Orange?

Lewis Mock Orange is a deciduous shrub that can generally grow up to six feet tall and wide. It has dark green leaves and bears clusters of white or cream-colored flowers that are sweet-scented. The flowers have a five-petaled shape and look similar to those of jasmine or orange blossoms.

Why should you grow Lewis Mock Orange?

Besides being an attractive ornamental plant, Lewis Mock Orange also provides numerous benefits to your garden. Its fragrant flowers attract pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, which help to improve crop production. Additionally, its dense growth habit makes it an excellent choice for hedges or screening plants.

How does Lewis Mock Orange look like?

The foliage of Lewis Mock Orange is dark green and given a course texture. Typically, the foliage grows in opposite pairs on each stem that creates an eye-catching effect.

Where can you grow Lewis Mock Orange?

Lewis Mock Orange thrives in warm climates with moderate moisture levels. The plant prefers well-draining soil, but it can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions. Lewis Mock Orange does best in full sun, although it can tolerate light shade if necessary.

Caring for Your Lewis Mock Orange Plant

Caring for Lewis Mock Orange requires basic planting techniques and proper maintenance. Below are some tips to ensure that your plant thrives.

Planting and Growing Conditions

When planting Lewis Mock Orange, select a location with full sun or light shade. The ideal soil type is well-draining, fertile soil. Make sure to dig a hole that is slightly larger than the root ball of the plant. When planting the shrub, ensure that the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Ensure you fertilize the soil appropriately during planting to provide essential nutrients to the growing plant.

Watering and Fertilization Tips

Water your Lewis Mock Orange plant regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply once a week, particularly during dry spells. During the establishment period, make sure you fertilize the plant as it will be in its most vulnerable state.

Pruning Techniques

Lewis Mock Orange only requires very little pruning which should be done right after flowering. Lateral stems on which flowers have faded should be cut back by a third or even half if need be. When necessary, alleviate dead or diseased branches and any weak or crossing limbs to prevent overcrowding.

Controlling Pests and Diseases

One common pest of Mock Orange is aphids which can be a problem when they are present in abundance. These tiny insects can be controlled by spraying with an insecticide solution or removing them manually. Leaf spot is another prevalent pathogen of the mock orange shrub, and its damage can be reduced by watering moderately, promoting good air circulation and pruning to remove affected parts.

Lewis Mock Orange is a beautiful and fragrant addition to any garden. With these basic care and cultivation tips in mind, your plant will live long and healthy, producing numerous lovely flowers.

FAQ about Lewis Mock Orange Plant

What is Philadelphus Lewisii?

Philadelphus lewisii is the scientific name of Lewis Mock Orange or Wild Mock Orange.

How tall can a Mock Orange plant grow?

Typically, Lewis Mock Orange grows up to 6-10 feet, depending on the growing condition.

When does the Lewis Mock Orange bloom?

Lewis Mock Orange blooms throughout late spring and early summer, with its flowers lasting for weeks.

Does Lewis Mock Orange require full sun or shade?

Lewis Mock Orange prefers full sunlight but can tolerate light shade.

Can Lewis Mock Orange tolerate cold temperatures?

Lewis Mock Orange shrub can tolerate very low winter temperatures if it's protected from winds and frost pocket areas.

How often should I fertilize my Lewis Mock Orange plant?

Fertilize Lewis Mock Orange after planting it and every year thereafter in early spring with a good quality, balanced fertilizer.

Can Lewis Mock Orange attract pests or diseases?

Yes, aphids and leaf spot disease are common pests and diseases that can affect mock orange plants.

Is Lewis Mock Orange toxic to humans or pets?

Lewis Mock Orange is not toxic to humans or animals.

Do I need to prune my Lewis Mock Orange plant every year?

No, Mock Orange plant only needs appropriate pruning once a year just after blooming.

Can I propagate Lewis Mock Orange by cuttings?

Yes, propagation by hardwood cuttings taken in winter or semi-hardwood cuttings in summer can produce new shrubs relatively quickly.