Philadelphus Lemoinei Belle Etoile

Description

Philadelphus Lemoinei Belle Etoile, commonly known as Belle Etoile mock orange, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the family Hydrangeaceae. It is a hybrid variety of Philadelphus that was developed in France in the late 1800s. The plant produces an abundance of fragrant, white flowers with a pink blush that bloom in late spring to early summer. The flowers are cup-shaped and have four petals that surround a yellow center. The leaves are dark green and ovate-shaped. Belle Etoile mock orange is a popular choice for landscaping due to its attractive flowers and ease of cultivation.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Belle Etoile mock orange can grow up to 6 feet tall and 4 feet wide. The plant has an open, spreading habit and arching branches. The flowers are approximately 2 inches in diameter and are produced in clusters at the end of the branches. They have a sweet, citrusy fragrance that can be detected from a distance. The leaves are 2-4 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. They are dark green and have a serrated margin. In the fall, the leaves turn yellow before dropping.

Care Guide

Philadelphus Lemoinei Belle Etoile is a low maintenance shrub that is easy to care for. Here are some care tips to keep your Belle Etoile mock orange healthy and blooming:

Water: Water regularly during the growing season, especially during hot, dry weather. Make sure the soil is well-draining to prevent root rot.

Fertilization: Fertilize once a year in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing as it can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.

Soil: Belle Etoile mock orange prefers a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels.

Sunlight: Plant in a location that receives full sun to partial shade. Too much shade can lead to reduced flower production.

Hardiness Zones: Belle Etoile mock orange is hardy in zones 5-8.

Common Pests & Diseases

Belle Etoile mock orange is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, a fungal disease that causes a white, powdery coating on the leaves. To prevent powdery mildew, plant in a location with good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. If powdery mildew does occur, spray with a fungicide.

Habitat

Philadelphus Lemoinei Belle Etoile is native to Europe and is commonly cultivated in gardens and parks. It prefers a temperate climate with mild summers and cold winters. The shrub can tolerate a wide range of soil types and pH levels.

Question and Answer

Q: How often should I prune my Belle Etoile mock orange?
A: Prune after flowering to shape the plant and remove any dead or damaged wood.Q: Can Belle Etoile mock orange be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Belle Etoile mock orange can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the roots.Q: Does Belle Etoile mock orange attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the fragrant flowers of Belle Etoile mock orange attract bees and butterflies.Q: Can Belle Etoile mock orange be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Belle Etoile mock orange can be propagated from softwood cuttings taken in early summer.

Related Plants

• Philadelphus coronarius (common mock orange)
• Philadelphus virginalis (virginal mock orange)
• Philadelphus ‘Avalanche’ (Avalanche mock orange)
• Philadelphus ‘Snow White Sensation’ (Snow White Sensation mock orange)

References

• “Philadelphus Lemoinei ‘Belle Etoile’.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 29 May 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c274>.
• “Philadelphus Lemoinei ‘Belle Etoile’.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 29 May 2021. <https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/3928/Philadelphus-Lemoinei-Belle-Etoile/Details>.
• “Belle Etoile Mock Orange.” Gardenia.net. Accessed 29 May 2021. <https://www.gardenia.net/plant/philadelphus-lemoinei-belle-etoile-mock-orange>.