Description of Philadelphus lewisii Pursh var. intermedius (A. Nels.) Hu
Philadelphus lewisii Pursh var. intermedius (A. Nels.) Hu, also known as Lewis' mockorange, is a shrub that is native to western parts of North America. The plant belongs to the family Hydrangeaceae and is a popular ornamental plant due to its fragrant flowers and attractive appearance.
Appearance
The Lewis' mockorange plant is a deciduous shrub that can grow up to 10 feet tall and 8 feet wide. The leaves are dark green, ovate, and have pointed tips and serrated edges. The plant also produces fragrant white flowers that have a diameter of about 1-2 inches and single or double blooms in May and June. The flowers are cup-shaped and have numerous petals that are arranged in a spiral pattern. The fruit of the plant is a capsule that contains numerous seeds.
Origin and Distribution
Lewis' mockorange is native to the western parts of North America, including British Columbia, Alaska, Washington, Oregon, California, Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming. The plant can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including rocky slopes, forests, and along riverbanks.
Common Names
Lewis' mockorange is commonly known as syringa, whistling bush, wild mockorange, and Lewis' mockorange.
Uses
The Lewis' mockorange plant is popularly used as an ornamental plant in gardens due to its attractive appearance and fragrant flowers. The plant is also used in traditional medicine to treat conditions such as stomach aches, diarrhea, and skin conditions like eczema. The bark of the plant is used to make a tea, which is consumed for its medicinal properties.
In conclusion, Philadelphus lewisii Pursh var. intermedius (A. Nels.) Hu is a beautiful and fragrant shrub that is native to western parts of North America. The plant is commonly used as an ornamental plant, and its bark and tea are used for medicinal purposes.
Light Requirements
Philadelphus lewisii Pursh var. intermedius (A. Nels.) Hu thrives in partial shade to full sun conditions. However, it prefers to grow in areas with dappled light or morning sun to avoid being scorched or damaged by the afternoon sun. In areas with abundant sunlight, it is recommended to provide some shading during midday to avoid sunburn, especially in hot and dry climates.
Temperature Requirements
The typical temperature range suitable for growing Philadelphus lewisii Pursh var. intermedius (A. Nels.) Hu is between 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C). It can tolerate frost to a certain extent, but it may suffer from severe damage if exposed to prolonged freezing temperatures below 20°F (-6°C). The plant can also withstand high summer temperatures, but it requires adequate hydration to endure extended periods of heat stress.
Soil Requirements
The ideal soil conditions for growing Philadelphus lewisii Pursh var. intermedius (A. Nels.) Hu are well-drained soils with neutral to slightly acidic pH levels ranging from 6.0 to 7.0. The soil should be rich in organic matter, allowing for good airflow and nutrient absorption. It can tolerate slightly sandy or loamy soils, provided they have good drainage. However, it does not thrive in heavy clay soils that retain too much moisture and can suffocate its roots, leading to root rot.
Cultivation
Philadelphus lewisii Pursh var. intermedius (A. Nels.) Hu, commonly known as Lewis' mock orange, is a beautiful deciduous shrub that grows up to 8 feet tall and 6 feet wide. It is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8 and thrives in full sun to partial shade. This plant prefers well-draining soils but can tolerate most soil types. It is propagated through seed or stem cuttings in spring or fall.
Watering Needs
Consistent and deep watering is essential for the healthy growth of Lewis' mock orange. It requires about an inch of water each week, especially during prolonged dry spells. Young plants or those grown in containers need more frequent watering than established ones. When watering, ensure that the soil is moist to a depth of at least 6 inches.
Fertilization
To enhance the growth and overall health of Philadelphus lewisii Pursh var. intermedius, fertilize it annually in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer around the base of the plant and water thoroughly. Avoid over-fertilization as this can result in weak and leggy growth with few flowers.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary to maintain the shape and size of Lewis' mock orange and stimulate blooming. The best time to prune is soon after the plant flowers, as it blooms on old wood. Cut back any dead or damaged wood to the base of the plant. Trim back any new growth to about two-thirds of its length to encourage branching and more flowers.
Propagation of Philadelphus lewisii Pursh var. intermedius
Philadelphus lewisii Pursh var. intermedius (A. Nels.) Hu, also known as Lewis' mock orange, can be propagated using several techniques including seed propagation, cuttings, and layering.
Seed Propagation
Lewis' mock orange can be propagated using its seeds, which can be obtained from ripe fruit. The seeds have a hard outer layer and need to be scarified, or scratched, with a file or sandpaper to facilitate germination. The seeds can be sown in the fall or early spring and should be sown a few millimeters deep in well-draining soil. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged, and the seedlings should be kept in a shaded area until they are mature enough to be transplanted outdoors.
Cuttings
Lewis' mock orange can also be propagated using cuttings from semi-hardwood stems. The stems should be cut to about 10-15 cm in length and should have at least one node. The leaves on the lower half of the cutting should be removed, and the cutting should be dusted with rooting hormone powder before being planted in well-draining soil. The cutting should be kept moist and in a shaded area until it has developed roots and can be transplanted outdoors.
Layering
Another propagation method for Lewis' mock orange is layering. This involves bending a low branch to the ground and burying it in soil, leaving the tip of the branch exposed. The area where the branch is buried should be wounded to encourage rooting. The branch should be kept moist and in a shaded area until it has developed roots and can be separated from the parent plant.
Disease Management
Philadelphus lewisii Pursh var. intermedius (A. Nels.) Hu is generally a healthy plant, but it is susceptible to certain diseases. Here are some common diseases that affect the plant and ways to manage them:
- Leaf spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes brown or black spots on leaves. It can be managed by removing infected leaves and maintaining good air circulation around the plant.
- Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that causes a white powder-like substance to form on leaves. It can be managed by increasing air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
- Root rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that causes the roots to rot and the plant to wilt. It can be managed by planting the plant in well-draining soil and avoiding overwatering.
Pest Management
Philadelphus lewisii Pursh var. intermedius (A. Nels.) Hu is susceptible to certain pests. Here are some common pests that affect the plant and ways to manage them:
- Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from leaves and stems. They can be managed by spraying the plant with a strong jet of water or insecticidal soap.
- Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny, spider-like insects that feed on the undersides of leaves. They can be managed by increasing the humidity around the plant and spraying with insecticidal soap.
- Thrips: Thrips are small, slender insects that feed on flower buds and leaves. They can be managed by removing and destroying infested plant parts and spraying with insecticidal soap.
