Overview & Description

The Waterton Mockorange (Philadelphus lewisii Waterton) is a large, multi-stemmed deciduous shrub prized for its spectacular and fragrant floral display. In late spring to early summer, it is covered in showy clusters of fragrant, pure white, cup-shaped flowers with yellow eyes. This selection of a native North American species was hybridized by the Alberta Horticultural Research Station in Brooks, Alberta . It has green, serrated oval leaves that do not develop significant fall colour.

Growth & Size

This shrub exhibits an upright, spreading, and arching growth habit. It is a fast-growing plant, typically reaching a mature size of 6 to 8 feet in height and 4 to 5 feet in width. It can live for approximately 30 years under ideal conditions.

Additional Notes

It blooms in late spring to early summer. Exceptionally cold-hardy to Zone 3 and adaptable, it tolerates a wide range of well-drained soils and urban pollution, thriving in full sun to partial shade. It is drought-tolerant once established. To avoid removing flower buds, it should be pruned immediately after flowering. An outstanding choice for mass plantings, hedges, screening, or as a fragrant focal point in the shrub border.