How to Identify a Mock Orange
Unlike their namesakes, mock orange plants are not fruit-bearing shrubs. They are usually grown as borders or landscaping in yards and gardens, require very little maintenance except for pruning and produce only sweet-smelling flowers. Mock oranges are so named because in many ways they look and smell like an orange tree, but do not yield orange fruit. You can follow a few guidelines to identify mock orange plants. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Look for the mock orange shrub's telltale structure. Branches or stems are long and grow mostly from the base of the plant. They can grow to be anywhere from 3 to 12 feet tall, but never look like an actual tree. The spread of a mock orange shrub will range from 10 to 12 feet.
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Identify mock orange blossoms, which bloom in late spring. Blossoms are about 1 inch wide, pure white and have four petals spreading from the center. The ends of the petals might be bent backward when new. The blossoms will cover the shrub when blooming.
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Identify mock orange leaves, which will be deep-green pointed ovals. Leaves drop off in fall and regrow in late winter and early spring.
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Tips & Warnings
Grow mock orange shrubs in rich, quick-draining soil.
Lack of proper pruning will harm mock orange shrubs.
