How to Grow Japanese Mock Orange - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team   /   2024

Japanese mock orange is a popular plant in japanese gardens. it is a small evergreen shrub with white flowers that have a strong citrus fragrance. the japanese mock orange is also known as the eijitsu rose.

How to Grow Japanese Mock Orange - Plant Care & Tips

Also known as

  • Japanese Snowball
  • Japanese Apricot
  • Japanese Quince
  • Chinese Snowball
  • Winter Zeal

Things to Know

  • The Japanese mock orange is a shrub that can grow up to 8 feet tall.
  • It has small, white flowers that have a strong fragrance.
  • The mock orange is native to China and Japan.
  • It is often used as an ornamental plant in gardens.
  • The Japanese mock orange is also known as the yaezakura.
  • The mock orange is not actually related to oranges.
  • The flowers of the mock orange are edible and are often used in salads.
  • The mock orange is a popular choice for bonsai.
  • The mock orange can be susceptible to pests and diseases.
  • The mock orange is also known as the Japanese orange.

Related plant:
Japanese Azalea Orange

Growing Steps

  1. For japanese mock orange, first step is to find a good location. It should be in full sun or partial shade.
  2. The soil should be rich and well-drained.
  3. Amend the soil with compost or manure before planting.
  4. Dig a hole that is twice the width and depth of the root ball.
  5. Set the plant in the hole so that the top of the root ball is even with the ground level.
  6. Backfill the hole with the amended soil.
  7. Water the plant deeply.
  8. Apply a layer of mulch around the plant, but not touching the stem.
  9. Fertilize the plant in early spring and again in mid-summer.
  10. Prune as needed to maintain the desired shape.

Related plant:
Japanese Viburnum

The Soil

About soil condition, Japanese Mock Orange prefers well-drained, fertile soils, but it is adaptable to a range of soil types. It tolerates clay soils as well as sandy ones, as long as they are not waterlogged. The plant is also tolerant of salt, making it a good choice for planting near roads where de-icing salt is used in winter.

Light requirement

Similar to other citrus trees, the Japanese mock orange tree needs full sun to grow and produce fruit. It can tolerate partial shade, but it won't produce as much fruit. The tree is also fairly drought-tolerant, so it doesn't need a lot of water.

Good Temperature

The temperature condition that is most ideal for the growth of the japanese mock orange is a temperature that is between 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. This is a temperature range that is comfortable for humans and is also ideal for the growth of most plants. The japanese mock orange is a hardy plant and can withstand some colder temperatures, but it will not thrive in temperatures that are below freezing.

Humidity Level

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is 50% and above. mist the plant regularly especially during the summer months. During the winter, however, less misting is required. These plants are also sensitive to drafts so make sure to keep them away from any open doors or windows.

The Fertilizer

About fertilizer, usually the plant does not need too much. Once a month will be just fine for most plants, japanese mock orange included. Just be careful not to fertilize too close to the root, as this can damage the plant.

About light

Pruning your Japanese mock orange is important to encourage new growth and to keep the plant looking its best. You can prune your Japanese mock orange in early spring, before new growth begins. Pruning later in the season can damage new growth. To prune, remove dead or damaged branches, and cut back any overgrown branches.

About Propagating

Propagation of japanese mock orange is best done through rooted cuttings taken from the parent plant. Cuttings should be taken from healthy, new growth and placed in a well-draining, sterile potting mix. Cuttings should be kept moist and in a location with bright, indirect light until new growth appears, at which point they can be slowly acclimated to fuller sun. Once new growth appears, japanese mock orange can be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer to encourage continued growth.

Growth Rate

Usually, the plant growth rate is based on the plant's environment. If the plant is in a highly sought-after location, the growth rate will usually be faster. Also, if the plant is well cared for, the growth rate will be higher.

Basic Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant plants are caterpillars, snails, and slugs. These creatures can destroy the plant by eating the leaves, flowers, and buds. Japanese mock orange plants are also susceptible to powdery mildew and leaf spot diseases.

Tips on Growing

  • Do not forget to water your plant regularly. Keep the soil moist, but not soggy.
  • Place your plant in a spot where it will receive bright, indirect sunlight.
  • Fertilize your plant every few months with a balanced fertilizer.
  • Prune your plant regularly to encourage new growth and to keep it looking neat and tidy.
  • Keep an eye out for pests, such as aphids or scale insects, and treat them quickly if you spot them.
  • Japanese mock orange plants are generally very low-maintenance, but they can be susceptible to fungal diseases if the conditions are too wet or humid. If you see any signs of disease, such as yellowing leaves or stunted growth, take steps to improve air circulation around your plant and reduce moisture levels.
  • If you live in an area with cold winters, you may need to provide some protection for your plant. Consider placing it in a spot

Substitution

  • Mock Orange (Prunus Mume)
  • Sweet Orange (Citrus sinensis)
  • Blood Orange (Citrus sinensis)
  • Tangerine (Citrus reticulata)
  • Clementine (Citrus clementina)
  • Satsuma (Citrus unshiu)
  • Mandarin Orange (Citrus reticulata)
  • Kinkan (Citrus kinokuni)
  • Dekopon (Citrus sinensis)
  • Ponkan (Citrus poonensis)

Source:
Philadelphus inodorus (Appalachian Mock-orange, Mock Orange) …
Japanese | Language Center - Stanford University
Orange College

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Reviewed & Published by Richelle
Submitted by our contributor
Shrubs Category