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Description
Philadelphus Incanus, also known as the woolly mock orange, is a deciduous shrub belonging to the Hydrangeaceae family. This plant is native to the Western United States and is widely cultivated for its fragrant flowers. It can grow up to 6 feet tall and has a spread of up to 5 feet. The woolly mock orange blooms in late spring or early summer and produces clusters of white, fragrant flowers that attract bees and butterflies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Cornales |
| Family | Hydrangeaceae |
| Genus | Philadelphus |
Appearance
The Philadelphus Incanus has a bushy, rounded shape, with slender branches that are covered in small, grayish-green leaves. The leaves are oval or lance-shaped, with a woolly texture on the underside. The flowers are white, with four petals that are arranged in a cup-like shape. They are highly fragrant and produce a sweet, citrusy scent that is reminiscent of orange blossoms. The woolly mock orange blooms in late spring or early summer, and the flowers can persist for up to four weeks.
Care Guide
To care for Philadelphus Incanus, you should provide it with well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. This plant prefers moist, but not waterlogged soil. It requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. Fertilize the woolly mock orange in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. This plant does well in full sun to partial shade and can tolerate a range of temperatures. It is hardy in USDA Zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Philadelphus Incanus is generally free of pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, a fungal disease that appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves. This can be treated with fungicides, but it is best to prevent it by providing good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
The woolly mock orange is native to the Western United States, where it grows in a variety of habitats, including dry slopes, canyons, and forest edges. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of temperatures. This plant is widely cultivated as an ornamental shrub in gardens and landscapes.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Philadelphus Incanus be grown in containers?
A: Yes, woolly mock orange can be grown in containers, but it will require regular watering and fertilization.
Q: How often should I prune Philadelphus Incanus?
A: The woolly mock orange does not require frequent pruning. You can prune it in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged branches and to shape the plant.
Q: Does Philadelphus Incanus attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the fragrant flowers of the woolly mock orange attract bees and butterflies.
Q: Can Philadelphus Incanus be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, woolly mock orange can be propagated from softwood cuttings taken in early summer.
Related Plants
- Philadelphus coronarius
- Philadelphus lewisii
- Philadelphus mexicanus
- Philadelphus microphyllus
References
- Dirr, M. A. (2009). Dirr’s encyclopedia of trees and shrubs. Timber Press.
- Horticulture Week. (2019). Philadelphus Incanus. Retrieved from https://www.hortweek.com/philadelphus-incanus/plants/article/1495825
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Philadelphus Incanus. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=l350
