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Description
Philadelphus Pekinensis, also known as Pekin mock orange or Chinese mock orange, is a deciduous shrub native to China. It belongs to the genus Philadelphus, which is part of the hydrangea family. This plant is named after the Greek word “philadelphos,” which means “loving one’s brother.”Philadelphus Pekinensis produces clusters of fragrant, white flowers in late spring to early summer. The flowers have a sweet, citrusy scent, similar to that of orange blossoms. The shrub has an upright habit and can grow up to 10 feet tall and 6 feet wide. Its foliage is dark green and oval-shaped, with serrated edges.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Hydrangeaceae |
| Genus | Philadelphus |
Appearance
Philadelphus Pekinensis is a large shrub that can grow up to 10 feet tall and 6 feet wide. It has an upright habit and produces clusters of fragrant, white flowers in late spring to early summer. The flowers have a sweet, citrusy scent, similar to that of orange blossoms. The shrub’s foliage is dark green and oval-shaped, with serrated edges. The leaves are 1-3 inches long and 0.5-2 inches wide.
Care Guide
Philadelphus Pekinensis is a low-maintenance shrub that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:Water: This plant likes moist soil but can tolerate some drought. Water it regularly during the growing season and reduce watering in winter.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in spring with a slow-release fertilizer. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.Soil: This plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, from sandy to clay.Sunlight: Philadelphus Pekinensis prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may produce fewer flowers.Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Philadelphus Pekinensis is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, a fungal disease that causes a white, powdery coating on the leaves. To prevent powdery mildew, make sure the plant has good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.
Habitat
Philadelphus Pekinensis is native to China and is commonly found in forests and thickets. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Philadelphus Pekinensis a fast-growing plant?
A: Philadelphus Pekinensis is a moderate grower and can grow up to 10 feet tall and 6 feet wide.Q: How often should I water Philadelphus Pekinensis?
A: Water the plant regularly during the growing season and reduce watering in winter. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.Q: Can Philadelphus Pekinensis tolerate shade?
A: Philadelphus Pekinensis prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may produce fewer flowers.Q: How do I propagate Philadelphus Pekinensis?
A: Philadelphus Pekinensis can be propagated by softwood cuttings taken in early summer or hardwood cuttings taken in late fall.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Philadelphus Pekinensis:- Philadelphus coronarius (sweet mock orange)- Philadelphus lewisii (Lewis’ mock orange)- Philadelphus pubescens (hoary mock orange)- Philadelphus virginalis (virgin mock orange)
References
– Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Philadelphus pekinensis. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279740&isprofile=0&- The Spruce. (2021). How to grow Philadelphus shrubs in your garden. Retrieved from https://www.thespruce.com/growing-philadelphus-shrubs-3269359
