Philadelphus x lemoinei

A deciduous rounded shrub with arching branches that grows up to 2.4m tall and wide.

This large upright shrub produces beautifully scented single white cup-shaped flowers through summer. The leaves are bright green and oval.

Prefers full shade or partial shade with well-draining soil. Will tolerate most soil types.

Always choose healthy well grown plants and plant after autumn rains as the soil is moist and warm and allows plants to become established before winter. This enables them to withstand dry periods during the following summer. Young plants may require thorough watering during dry periods over the first two or three years. Mulching helps to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Planting success is often improved on clay soils by adding extra topsoil and raising beds. Incorporate coarse sand bark compost or other organic material to improve soil structure.

Before planting ensure the root ball is saturated and remove the planter bag or pot with minimal root disturbance. Trim any broken roots and plant at the same level as in the container. Dig a hole twice the diameter of the root ball and firm in and water once planted. Make sure plants are watered well until established if planting in a drier period. Plant with some general slow release fertiliser and then every spring apply an organic based fertiliser such as blood and bone at a handful per square meter as new growth begins.

Tall plants and those in windy positions may require staking to stabilize the root ball until established but Philadelphus are usually strong enough to not need any support.

Mulching annually helps suppress weeds and conserve moisture. Organic materials such as sawdust and bark contribute to soil structure as they decompose but keep deep mulching material away from the main stems They benefit from a dressing (50g/m2) of general purpose fertiliser in early spring as new growth begins. This will encourage more vigorous healthy growth. Sprinkle evenly and work into the top 2 to 3cm of the soil taking care not to damage surface roots.

The first summer and autumn after planting is critical for young plants; water thoroughly during dry periods. Pests and diseases can have serious debilitating effects on young plants; check regularly. Check stakes and ties for chafing and constriction and remove as soon as plants are strong enough to withstand winds without damage.

Pruning is usually done after flowering has finished. Prune back flowered stems to strong buds or young lower growth. On mature plants, a quarter to a fifth of old growth can be taken out right down at the base. Pruning like this will encourage good strong flowering growth for the following year.

Aphids and powdery mildew may be a problem.

Camellia Garden