Philadelphus Pearls of Perfume - The Revolutionary Mock Orange

Mock Orange

Philadelphus ‘Pearls of Perfume’: The Revolutionary Mock Orange

Discover Philadelphus ‘Pearls of Perfume’, a breakthrough in mock orange breeding that offers both double white flowers and remarkable scent. This compact shrub brings multiple flowering seasons to your garden, making it truly special.

What Makes ‘Pearls of Perfume’ Different?

This first Philadelphus that flowers on both old and new growth produces fragrant blooms throughout the season. Plant breeder Rick Grazzini developed this revolutionary hybrid.

The compact habit makes it perfect for smaller gardens, reaching only 120cm in height.

How Do I Plant Philadelphus?

Choose a spot in well-drained soil with full sun or partial shade. Add well-rotted manure or garden compost prior to planting.

Water well after planting and maintain moisture during the first growing season.

When Does It Flower?

The first flowers appear in late spring on old growth. Unlike traditional mock orange, it continues blooming on new stems.

This breakthrough rebloom ability extends the flowering season well beyond traditional varieties.

What About Pruning?

Cut back stems to a healthy bud after the first flush of flowers. Remove a fifth of the old stems to ground level annually.

Regular pruning encourages new growth and maintains the plant’s compact shape.

How Does The Scent Compare?

The double white flowers produce an intoxicating fragrance similar to orange blossom. Many consider it among the most scented flowers in cultivation.

The scent intensifies during evening hours, perfect for garden seating areas.

Will It Grow In My Garden?

This deciduous shrub thrives in most UK gardens. It tolerates various soil types but prefers well-drained conditions.

The compact size suits borders and smaller spaces, reaching about 60cm wide.

What About Seasonal Care?

‘Pearls of Perfume’ needs minimal maintenance beyond pruning. Apply mulch in spring to retain moisture.

Watch for seasonal changes as foliage develops and flowers emerge.

Can I Propagate It?

Take softwood cuttings in early summer. Use stems from new growth for best results.

Provide bottom heat and high humidity until roots develop.

How Does It Compare To Traditional Mock Orange?

Unlike traditional Philadelphus, ‘Pearls of Perfume’ flowers multiple times. It also maintains a more densely compact habit.

The double flowers last longer than single varieties.

Key Points to Remember:

• Flowers on both old and new growth
• Compact size perfect for small gardens
• Highly scented double white flowers
• Regular pruning encourages reblooming
• Thrives in sun or partial shade
• Easy to maintain
• Extended flowering season
• Suitable for UK climate
• Takes well from cuttings
• Excellent fragrance

Check out the RHS article here.

For more information on Shrubs for your garden please click here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is Philadelphus ‘Pearls of Perfume’?

A: Philadelphus ‘Pearls of Perfume’ is a delightful flowering shrub known for its sweet-scented blooms. It is often sought after in the UK for its gorgeous white flowers that fill your garden with a floral fragrance during the summer months.

Q: Where can I buy Philadelphus ‘Pearls of Perfume’?

A: You can find ‘Pearls of Perfume’ at various nurseries and online at Swift Plants.

Q: How do I grow Philadelphus ‘Pearls of Perfume’?

A: To grow Philadelphus, plant it in well-drained soil in a sunny spot. Regular watering, especially during dry spells, helps its growth. Adding well-rotted manure or garden compost can boost development. Prune the shrub by removing a fifth of the old and current growth each year to encourage healthy buds.

Q: When does Philadelphus ‘Pearls of Perfume’ bloom?

A: The blooms typically appear in late spring to early summer. You’ll notice those lovely white flowers starting to emerge, filling the air with their sweet scent!

Q: Are there any special care tips for ‘Pearls of Perfume’?

A: Absolutely! Make sure to plant it in a sunny area and monitor moisture levels. Fertilising with rotted manure or garden compost can really help. Also, keep an eye out for any pests that might want to interfere.

Q: Can I grow Philadelphus ‘Pearls of Perfume’ in pots?

A: Yes, you can! Just ensure the pot has good drainage and use a rich potting mix. Regular watering and feeding will help keep the plant healthy and thriving.

Q: What should I do if I notice my Philadelphus isn’t blooming?

A: If your ‘Pearls of Perfume’ isn’t blooming, check whether it’s getting enough sunlight and if the soil drains well. Sometimes, a little extra care with watering or fertilising can help coax those blooms out.