Philadelphus coronarius Illuminati Tower® ('SMNPVG') - Mock Orange

The Garden Mock Orange or Philadelphus coronarius Illuminati Tower® is an innovative variety suitable for small spaces. Instead of forming a large, somewhat loose bush, this one has a very narrow and vertical habit with small dimensions, resembling more from a distance an erect perennial. In June, its abundant small highly fragrant white flowers are clustered on each side of the sturdy stems. Nectariferous, they attract butterflies. Drought-resistant, it prefers a sunny or semi-shaded position.

The Philadelphus coronarius belongs to the hydrangea family. The Philadelphus coronarius, also known as Mock Orange or Poet's Jasmine, is a botanical species native to southern Europe and Asia Minor. Illuminati Tower is a deciduous bush with vigorous upright and narrow growth, reaching eventually around 1.50 to 1.80 m in height by 90 cm to 1.20 m in spread. It produces, between late May and early July, numerous clusters of single 4-petaled creamy white flowers, 2.5 cm in diameter, with yellow stamens, very fragrant. The leaves are ovate, 5 to 8 cm long, pointed, edged with small teeth. The foliage colour is a medium green. This deciduous foliage falls in autumn.

Poet's Jasmine Illuminati Tower®, robust and undemanding, suits both experienced and novice gardeners. It withstands cold as well as dry summers. Plant it in a border or a small hedge with weigelas, butterfly bushes, small lilacs or rose bushes for hedging for example. In a border, plant it at the back, behind white or colourful perennials with staggered flowering like gauras, coneflowers, columbines and hardy geraniums.

In ancient Persia, the fragrant white flowers of Philadelphus coronarius were used to make scented crowns.