Guelder rose and Mock orange are often considered for the same spot in the garden (flowers, hedge, screening, pollinator friendly). The data below shows where they differ: size, hardiness, care, toxicity and price.
Viburnum opulus 3 m × 2.5 m after 10 years
A fast-growing, large native shrub with lobed, maple-like leaves, flat white lacecap flowers in May and June, red autumn foliage and glossy red…
Philadelphus coronarius 2.5 m × 2 m after 10 years
A large, upright then arching deciduous shrub grown for its white, intensely sweet-scented flowers in late May and June: plant it near a patio or seat…
Guelder rose is hardier: down to -40 °C, against -34 °C for Mock orange.
Mock orange tolerates drought better than Guelder rose.
Mock orange needs less water than Guelder rose.
Mock orange needs less care than Guelder rose.
Mock orange is cheaper: about €4.90 at the size usually planted, against about €14 for Guelder rose.
|
Feature
|
Guelder rose
|
Mock orange
|
|---|---|---|
| Group | Shrub | Shrub |
| Size after 10 years | 3 m × 2.5 m | 2.5 m × 2 m |
| Ultimate size | 3–5 m × 2.5–4.5 m | 3–4 m × 2.5–4 m |
| Growth rate | Fast | Fast |
| Light | Full sun, Part shade | Full sun, Part shade |
| Soil | Average garden soil, Clay, Sandy, Calcareous, Acidic | Average garden soil, Clay, Calcareous |
| Hardiness | down to -40 °C (USDA 3, RHS H7) | down to -34 °C (USDA 4, RHS H7) |
| Foliage | Deciduous | Deciduous |
| Flowering | May–June, white | May–June, white |
| Water need | High | Medium |
| Drought tolerance | Low | Medium |
| Maintenance | Medium | Low |
| Planting distance | 200 cm | 150 cm |
| For dogs | no data | Non-toxic (uncertain) |
| For cats | no data | Non-toxic (uncertain) |
| For children | Mildly toxic | Non-toxic (uncertain) |
| Typical price | approx. €14 | approx. €4.90 |
Prices are rounded, indicative values. Toxicity data is for information only. If your pet or child has eaten a plant, contact a vet or a doctor. Data updated: October 13, 2026
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