These bare-root mock orange plants (Philadelphus lewisii) don’t look like much – yet. Now is a perfect time to plant bare-root perennials, and they come at a dangerous (for me!) bargain! Not only do they smell great, attract birds, bees, and butterflies, but the bark and leaves contain saponins, which can be used with water as a mild soap. It is drought tolerant, can grow in sun or partial shade, and can handle poor soil … what is there not to love about this plant?