Lewis' Mock Orange

Philadelphus lewisii

Hydrangeaceae · deciduous shrub · native

You'll recognize Lewis' Mock Orange by its fragrant white flowers in early summer, typically appearing on shrubs 8-12 feet tall along forest margins and rocky hillsides throughout the interior Pacific Northwest. The creeping red stems become conspicuous in winter, and the exfoliating gray bark adds texture year-round. Idaho designated this showy native as its state flower.

This shrub thrives in full sun and adaptable soils with moderate drainage, making it suitable for many PNW landscapes. Prune immediately after flowering since it blooms on previous season's growth. In the lowlands, provide afternoon shade in hot summers. The 'Goose Creek' cultivar offers superior hardiness, extending the range of mock orange into colder zones.

Quick Facts

Height

12 ft

Growth Rate

Moderate

Light

Full Sun

Soil

Adaptable

Water

Low

Hardiness

Zone Zones 7b–8b

Bloom Time

May 1-May 31

Origin

Western North America

Phenological Calendar

Stage	Typical Window	What to Look For
Bud break BBCH 07	Feb 15-Mar 15	Buds swelling and beginning to open; first green tissue visible
Leaf emergence BBCH 11	Mar 1-Apr 1	First leaves fully unfurled on new growth
Bloom start BBCH 61	May 1-May 31	First open flowers visible; flowers white
Bloom end / petal fall BBCH 69	May 15-Jun 15	Last petals falling; flower structures fading
Fruit/seed development BBCH 71	Jun 1-Aug 31	Fruit or seed structures forming; fruit color: brown
Fruit/seed maturity BBCH 85	Sep 1-Nov 30	Fruit fully colored and ripened; seed dispersal may begin
Leaf drop BBCH 93	Oct 15-Nov 30	Leaves yellowing and dropping; no significant fall color display
Dormancy BBCH 97	Nov 15-Feb 28	Leafless; no active growth; dormant buds set

Diseases (1)

Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae Bacterial Blight

Cultivars (1)

Goose Creek

Common name: Goose Creek Mockorange; Mature height: 8 ft