Location

• Japanese mockorange hails from China and Japan, and is commonly cultivated in warm climates across the globe. Japanese mockorange is especially popular in Florida and the Pacific Northwest. The shrub has an exceptional tolerance of coastal conditions, and can handle salty soils. Plant in USDA zones 8 to 10, in full sunlight, partial sunlight or shade. Plants grown in full sunlight are more compact and dense than those grown in shade.
  
  

Soil

• Japanese mockorange is tolerant of a range of soil types, though soil must be well draining for the shrub to truly thrive. Water regularly to promote rapid growth and lush, vibrant foliage and flowers. Though quite drought-tolerant, the shrub loses considerable ornamental value if left to languish in arid conditions. Do not plant in areas that are prone to flooding, as root rot can quickly infect and kill the shrub.
  
  

Uses

• Japanese mockorange works well as a privacy screen or as an informal hedge, where its flowers can be admired and sniffed. The plant may be pruned severely to created a formal hedge or topiary, although this reduces the appeal of the plant's large, glossy leaves. The shrub is suitable for containers, and may even be grown as a small bonsai like tree if lower limbs are trimmed. If flowers are desired, wait until flowering has finished before pruning.
  
  

Problems

• Japanese mockorange is susceptible to several pests, including cottony cushion scale and aphids. Scale may be removed with regular applications of horticultural oil, while aphids may not necessarily warrant control. Severe aphid infestations may be controlled with soapy water, insecticidal soap or predatory insects such as lady bugs. When planted in high pH soil, nutrient deficiencies such as chlorosis may occur. Amend soil with fertilizer. Leaf spot and similar diseases may occur in wet, waterlogged soils.