The question of whether Aglaia odorata and Mock Orange are the same plant arises from a shared characteristic: both produce highly fragrant flowers. However, this is where the similarity largely ends. They are distinct species from different botanical families, native to separate regions of the world. The common name "Mock Orange" is itself a major source of confusion, as it is applied to several different plants that produce orange-blossom-scented flowers.
This is the most definitive way to distinguish the two plants. Aglaia odorata, commonly known as Chinese Perfume Plant, belongs to the Mahogany family, Meliaceae. Its genus Aglaia contains over 100 species. In contrast, the plant most commonly referred to as Mock Orange in temperate horticulture is Philadelphus, a genus within the Hydrangea family, Hydrangeaceae. There are many species and cultivars within the Philadelphus genus, such as Philadelphus coronarius. This fundamental difference in family (Meliaceae vs. Hydrangeaceae) confirms they are not closely related.
The physical appearance of these plants is markedly different. Aglaia odorata is a large, evergreen shrub or small tree. Its leaves are pinnately compound, meaning each leaf is composed of multiple smaller leaflets (usually 3 to 7) arranged opposite each other along a central stem. The foliage is glossy and dark green. Mock Orange (Philadelphus), on the other hand, is a deciduous shrub that loses its leaves in winter. Its leaves are simple, not compound, and are arranged oppositely on the stem. They are typically ovate to elliptic in shape with a matte green finish. The growth habit of Mock Orange is often more loose and arching compared to the denser form of Aglaia.
While both are celebrated for their scent, their flowers are structurally unique. Aglaia odorata produces very small, minuscule yellow flowers that are barely 0.5 cm in diameter. These tiny flowers are clustered in panicles. Their fragrance is powerful, sweet, and honey-like, often permeating the air around the plant. The flowers of Mock Orange (Philadelphus) are its main ornamental feature. They are much larger, typically 2.5-4 cm across, with four or five pure white petals and a prominent cluster of yellow stamens in the center. Their scent is famously reminiscent of orange blossoms, which is the origin of the common name.
Their environmental needs differ significantly due to their origins. Aglaia odorata is native to Southeast Asia and Southern China. It is a tropical to subtropical plant, thriving in USDA hardiness zones 10-12. It is not frost-tolerant and must be protected from cold temperatures. Mock Orange (Philadelphus) species are predominantly native to temperate regions of North America, Europe, and Asia. They are cold-hardy shrubs, suitable for zones 4-8, and require a period of winter dormancy to thrive.
