Description
Philadelphus ‘Belle Étoile’, commonly known as mock orange, is a deciduous shrub that produces fragrant, star-shaped white flowers with a purple center in early summer. The flowers are often used in floral arrangements due to their sweet scent and elegant appearance. The shrub itself has an upright habit, with dark green leaves that turn yellow in the autumn. ‘Belle Étoile’ prefers full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. It can be planted as a specimen shrub or in groups for a mass planting effect. Some companion plants that complement ‘Belle Étoile’ include lavender, roses, and viburnums, which all share similar growing conditions and provide contrasting colors and textures.
Key Facts
- Common Name(s):Mock orange ‘Belle Étoile’
- Hardiness:Fully hardy
- How big will I get? Philadelphus ‘Belle Étoile’ can grow to a height of 1.5m and a spread of 2.5m.
- Did You Know That:Philadelphus are named after Ptolemy II Philadelphus who was the son of one Alexander the Great’s generals?
Plant Calendar
A rough guide to how this plant will change through the year.
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | June | July | Aug | Sept | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
Flowering Time | ||||||||||||
Foliage Colour |
J | F | M | A | M | J | J | A | S | O | N | D |
Care Guide
Soil Requirements
Philadelphus ‘Belle Étoile’ is a versatile plant and can cope with wet or drier soils, but prefers there to be decent drainage. This plant can grow in soil with a wide range of pH levels, it is not picky about the pH level of the soil.
Best Position
Philadelphus ‘Belle Étoile’ can handle either an exposed or a sheltered position and can cope with either full sun or partial shade.
Maintenance
Philadelphus ‘Belle Étoile’ should be cut back after it finishes flowering will promote growth the following year by redirecting energy from seed production and foliage maintenance to root growth.
Pest, Diseases and Wildlife
Philadelphus ‘Belle Étoile’ can have problems with aphids, it can be vulnerable to certain diseases such as powdery mildews. It is not considered to be toxic.