A plant of the Month
As a garden designer ensuring a garden has all year round interest so important. One shrub that is one of my plants of the month for a country garden is the Philadelphus. The ones I have in my garden are just coming into blossom. I know I’m in for a treat for the next few months.

The Philadelphus comes in many varities and if you have the space for one to grow I would strongly recommend ‘Virginal’ this will grow to 2.5m high smothered in double pure white flowers in June and July. When you catch the white flowers on a hot summers day gleam with a freshness against an azure blue sky it is something to behold. Not only that but the plant has a beautiful orange scent, hence the name Mock Orange.

If you are lacking in space the Philadelphus ‘Belle Etoile’ has a single flower with a great scent and only reaches 1.2m in height or even smaller is the ‘Manteau d’Hermine which reaches .75m in height. I have one that has a clipped box hedge in front of it, the dark leaf of the box contrasts with the fresh vibrant leaf of the Philadelphus. If you’re looking for a bit of interest later in the year you can plant a later flowering Clematis such as Taylors Clematis Margaret Hunt can then twist and curl over the shrub giving an extra interest to the garden.

Aspect
The Philadelphus likes sun or partial shade

Nurseries
This is a plant that is easily sourced from nurseries, I’m sure your local nursery will have a Philadelphus for your needs but if not try Crocus

If you’re looking for all year round interest in your garden and need some inspiration contact Samantha Willis Garden Designer in Oxford