Philadelphus 'Belle Etoile'

The gorgeous, orange blossom fragrance of Philadelphus ‘Belle Etoile’ permeates through garden in summer. The elegant, arching branches and abundant blooms, it is highly lauded.

Philadelphus ‘Belle Etoile’ was developed in the early 1900’s by legendary breeder Victor Lemoine and is still favoured for its strong fragrance, long flowering period and compact growth. It holds the prestigious RHS Award of Garden Merit so you know it is reliable and easy care.

The flowers open in abundance on graceful, arching branches, each measuring around 5cm across. The blooms have a decadent splash of pink at their heart. They open in racemes in groups of 3-5.

It makes a wonderful little shrub for borders or hedging. Quick to establish and rewarding to grow. Philadelphus ‘Belle Etoile’ is deciduous and has mid to bright green, serrated leaves that grow to around 11cm. The stems can be cut for the vase. Philadelphus perfume is generally at its best in the evening.

Plant in full sun to semi shade in moderately fertile, to humus rich, well drained soil. Water to establish and then keep moist when in active growth. The foliage turns yellow before falling in autumn.

The botanical name, Philadelphus is from the Greek for brotherly love. ‘Belle Etoile’ is French, beautiful star.