Water
Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods. Reduce watering in winter when the plant is dormant. Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogged roots, which can lead to root rot.
Also known as Fuzzy Mock Orange
Downy Mock-orange (Philadelphus tomentosus) is a deciduous shrub celebrated for its fragrant, white flowers in late spring to early summer.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Prefers full sun for best flowering, but tolerates partial shade. Protect from intense afternoon sun in very hot climates.
Consistent Moisture
50% intensity
Keep soil evenly moist, especially during establishment and dry spells. Reduce in winter.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Hardy
25% intensity
Tolerates a wide range of temperatures. Generally hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilization.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods. Reduce watering in winter when the plant is dormant. Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogged roots, which can lead to root rot.
Prune immediately after flowering to shape the shrub and encourage new growth for the following year. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Light thinning can improve air circulation and flower production.
Propagate by softwood cuttings taken in early summer, or semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer. Cuttings should be treated with rooting hormone and placed in a moist, well-draining medium.
Layering is also an effective method.
Repot young plants every 1-2 years in spring before new growth starts. Mature plants generally do not require frequent repotting and can be refreshed by top-dressing with compost.
Ensure the new pot has adequate drainage.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Downy Mock-Orange (Philadelphus tomentosus)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Cornales |
| Family | Hydrangeaceae |
| Genus | Philadelphus |
| Species | Philadelphus tomentosus |
Similar in genus Philadelphus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data