Philadelphus mexicanus (& karwinskyanus)

There are a number of P. mexicanus forms growing in the Bay
Area, and I find almost none of them fragrant, at least not
so you'd notice.  If you cram your nose into the flower, it
is noticibly fragrant, but not from any distance.  Typically,
these make big, evergreen blobs with few flowers.  Many are
surprized that they are Philadelphus at all.  There are both
double and single forms in our gardens.  Only rarely available,
and usually in the (relatively) scentless double form.

In literature, P. mexicanus is often confused with another
Mexican evergreen species - P. karwinskyanus.  This plant is
quite desirable and has a much better form and flowering.  I
have never found this in the trade here, but I do know of one
or two plants.  The foliage is very similar to the above plant,
slightly narrow, lightly serrated opposite leaves,but in this
species the new growth has a light tomentose covering.  The
plant is more vine-like, sending huge shoots up into the air
which rest on whatever support might be on hand.  They produce
a terminal cluster a up to dozens of creamy white flowers, 
branched and with downward facing flowers of heavenly scent!  A
big, well-grown specimen on a trellis or tall fence it a
wonderful sight!  They can take semi-shade but seem to flower
better in good sun.  As with most Philadelphus, they are of the
easiest culture, growing in poor, heavy soils with little water
when well established.  

Many references are clearly addressing P. karwinskyanus when the
describe P. mexicanus.  P. karwinskyanus has also gone under the
name of P. sempervirens as well.  This is a very desirable plant
and well worth growing - if only some of our local growers would
become more interested in propagating it!
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