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Description
Philadelphus Coronarius Aureus, commonly known as Golden Mock Orange, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Hydrangeaceae family. This shrub is native to southeastern Europe and is widely cultivated in gardens and parks around the world. It can grow up to 3 meters in height and width, and produces fragrant white flowers in the summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Cornales |
| Family | Hydrangeaceae |
| Genus | Philadelphus |
Appearance
The Golden Mock Orange has beautiful golden leaves that turn yellow-green in the summer. Its flowers are white, fragrant, and cup-shaped, and can grow up to 5 cm in diameter. The shrub’s bark is grayish-brown, and its branches are slender and flexible. In the fall, the leaves turn yellow before falling off.
Care Guide
Golden Mock Orange is a low-maintenance shrub that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to keep it healthy and beautiful:- Water: Water the shrub regularly, especially during dry spells. Golden Mock Orange prefers moist soil, but it can tolerate some drought.- Fertilization: Fertilize the shrub in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can lead to weak growth and susceptibility to pests and diseases.- Soil: Golden Mock Orange prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but it prefers slightly acidic soil.- Sunlight: Golden Mock Orange prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it will produce fewer flowers.- Hardiness Zones: Golden Mock Orange is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Golden Mock Orange is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be affected by some common problems:- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to curl and yellow. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause the leaves to turn yellow and become mottled. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves. It can be prevented by providing good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Golden Mock Orange is native to southeastern Europe, where it grows in open woodlands and rocky slopes. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It is widely cultivated in gardens and parks around the world for its beautiful foliage and fragrant flowers.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Golden Mock Orange deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Golden Mock Orange is relatively deer-resistant.Q: Can Golden Mock Orange be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Golden Mock Orange can be grown in containers, but it will need frequent watering and fertilizing.Q: How often should I prune my Golden Mock Orange?
A: Golden Mock Orange should be pruned after flowering to maintain its shape and promote new growth.Q: Can I propagate Golden Mock Orange from cuttings?
A: Yes, Golden Mock Orange can be propagated from softwood or hardwood cuttings taken in the spring or fall.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Golden Mock Orange:- Philadelphus ‘Belle Etoile’: A hybrid between Philadelphus coronarius and Philadelphus microphyllus, with fragrant white flowers and purple-red centers.- Philadelphus ‘Snowbelle’: A compact shrub with double white flowers that bloom in early summer.- Philadelphus ‘Virginal’: A tall shrub with double white flowers that bloom in late spring.
References
– Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Philadelphus coronarius. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281640&isprofile=0&- Royal Horticultural Society. (n.d.). Philadelphus coronarius ‘Aureus’. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/11385/Philadelphus-coronarius-Aureus/Details
