Description

The littleleaf mock orange in native to the southeastern portions of California, the Southwest and northern Mexico. It is one of only two species of mock orange native to California, the other being the more wide-spread Philadelphus lewisii. The mock oranges are so named for their large fragrant white flowers which are reminiscent of orange blossoms. The littleleaf mock orange is highly variable in growth form throughout its large range. The ‘Desert Snow’ selection grows to about six feet tall and wide in open rounded form. The medium-green leaves cover the plant densely in the spring, followed by an abundant bloom of large white flowers. Littleleaf mock orange is quite adaptable to a variety of soil types, sun exposures and watering regimes. An optimal setting, however would be a site in full sun and well-draining soil. Adding to its many virtues, ‘Desert Snow’ mock orange does quite well in containers.