The question of whether Aglaia odorata and Mock Orange are the same plant arises from a common naming confusion in horticulture. While they may share a similar common name in some regions and both produce fragrant flowers, they are botanically distinct species from entirely different plant families and continents. The primary mix-up occurs because Aglaia odorata is sometimes colloquially called "Mock Lime" or "Chinese Perfume Plant," which can lead to its mistaken identity with the true Mock Orange.
The most definitive evidence that they are not the same plant lies in their scientific classification. Aglaia odorata, commonly known as Chinese Perfume Tree, belongs to the Mahogany family, Meliaceae. It is a tropical evergreen tree or shrub native to Southeast Asia and Southern China. In contrast, the true Mock Orange refers to plants from the genus Philadelphus, which is a member of the Hydrangea family, Hydrangeaceae. Philadelphus species are deciduous shrubs primarily native to temperate regions of North America, Europe, and Asia.
The physical characteristics of these plants are markedly different. Aglaia odorata has pinnately compound leaves, meaning each leaf is composed of multiple smaller leaflets (usually 3 to 5) arranged on opposite sides of a central stem. Its growth habit is dense, and it is often cultivated as a small, evergreen tree or a large shrub. Conversely, Philadelphus (Mock Orange) features simple leaves that are oppositely arranged on the stem. They are deciduous shrubs, losing their leaves in winter, and typically have a more arching, fountain-like growth form.
Both plants are renowned for their highly fragrant flowers, which is the main reason for the shared "mock" nomenclature—their scent is often compared to that of orange blossoms or citrus flowers. However, their floral structures are dissimilar. Aglaia odorata produces very small, yellow, powdery-looking panicle flowers throughout the year. The flowers are minuscule but incredibly potent. True Mock Orange (Philadelphus) bears much larger, showy, white flowers with typically four or five petals. These blooms appear in late spring to early summer and are borne on the previous year's growth.
Their climatic needs further highlight their differences. Aglaia odorata is a plant of the tropics and subtropics, thriving in USDA hardiness zones 10-12. It requires warm temperatures year-round and cannot tolerate frost. Philadelphus species are hardy temperate plants, with most varieties growing well in zones 4-8. They require a period of winter dormancy and are perfectly adapted to colder climates, making them unsuitable for tropical gardens where Aglaia flourishes.
