PHILADELPHUS. Mock orange. North America, Asia, Europe. A large group of flowering shrubs, much better appreciated in other parts of the world than here in California. With the recent revival of interest in the flowering shrubs, it seems only fitting that the fine array of selections already available elsewhere should be revisited here. Most have attractive pale bark, arching branches, and paired, pointed-oval leaves. They are decorated in late spring and summer by clusters of white, usually sweetly fragrant, 4- to 5-petalled blossoms with dense central brushes of stamens. Sun, most soils, moderate to regular watering, depending on the species. Hardiness varies.
mexicanus. Mexico. A scrambling, almost vining shrub, this species can grow 10-15' high if given support. With pruning, it can be maintained as an ordinary, medium-sized shrub. It has shiny, bright green leaves and intensely fragrant, cupped, cream-colored blossoms, 1-2" broad. The form currently in production has unusually good production of single flowers. There is also a selection with larger though fewer, fully double flowers. Hardy to around 15o when established.