About Philadelphus microphyllus A.Gray
Philadelphus microphyllus A.Gray is a highly variable plant species with many recognized subspecies. As a shrub, it typically has a rounded, spreading growth habit, and reaches a maximum height of about 2 metres (6 ft 7 in). Young branches of this species are covered in stiff hairs, while older branches develop shredding bark that appears reddish, yellowish, or gray. The oppositely arranged, deciduous leaves are pointed oval or lance-shaped, up to 2.5 centimetres (0.98 in) long, green in color, and sometimes covered in hairs. Its inflorescence is either a single solitary flower, or a small cluster of two or three flowers. Each fragrant bloom has four or five white or cream petals, plus a cluster of numerous stout stamens. After flowering, the plant produces a hard capsule fruit that holds many small seeds. This flowering shrub is propagated and grown as a drought-tolerant ornamental plant within its native range. It is used for traditional gardens, natural landscapes, native plant gardens, drought-tolerant water-conserving gardens, and habitat gardens. It is also incorporated into a variety of sustainable landscape and restoration projects for municipal, commercial, and agency purposes.
