An orange-like fragrance wafts from the showy and aromatic blossoms of one of our most beautiful native shrubs, Mock Orange (Philadelphus lewisii).

Loose, elongate clusters of snow-white flowers appear at the end of the branches from late May to July, depending on the location. The leaves and flowers foam into a lather when rubbed with the hands.

British Columbia's First Nations people valued the hard wood of mock orange as well as the soap-like material released from the leaves, which they used to cleanse the skin and wash clothing. The Saanich used the wood for bows and arrows.

Ronda Murdock is co-owner / operator of Pacific Rainforest Adventure Tours.