Thursday, 19 December 2013

PHILADELPHUS - MOCK ORANGE

Philadelphus, (mock-orange) is a genus of about 60 species of shrubs from 1 to 6 m tall, native to North America, Central America, Asia and (locally) in southeast Europe.They are named "mock-orange" in reference to their flowers, which in wild species look somewhat similar to those of oranges and lemons (Citrus) at first glance, and smell of orange flowers and jasmine (Jasminum). Philadelphus is named after an ancient Greek king of Egypt, Ptolemy II Philadelphus ("he displaying brotherly love").

Gardeners visiting spring gardens in New Zealand or England cannot fail to notice how these beautiful shrubs, often with arching to slightly pendulous growth habits, are covered with snow-white, deliciously scented flowers. They are especially effective when used in borders or as background to old-fashioned roses. The species illustrated here is: Philadelphus × purpureomaculatus,cultivar 'Belle Étoile'.

This post is part of the Floral Friday Fotos meme.



5 comments:

  1. WOW!Very beautiful flowers!Great photos.

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  2. I LOVE the smell of a mock orange!

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  4. Beautiful pictures and great information as always.

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