- Mature height
- 2m to 3m (approx.)
- Mature width
- 1.5m to 3m
Choisya ternata, the Mexican Orange Blossom, is a dense evergreen shrub with glossy three part leaves that release a citrus scent when brushed. Clusters of white star shaped flowers cover the plant in late spring, carrying a sweet orange blossom fragrance, and a lighter second flush often follows through autumn.
It grows 30 to 60 centimetres a year to about 1.5 to 2.5 metres tall and 1.5 to 3 metres wide. Full sun to part shade suits it, with afternoon shade helpful in hot inland gardens. It takes light to moderate frost once established and does best in well drained soil with water through summer.
It works as an informal hedge along a path, as mass planting in front of taller screening, or in a pot near a doorway where the scent gets noticed. The dense habit holds shape without constant clipping, and the aromatic foliage is generally left alone by possums and rabbits.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Mexican Orange Blossom
What is Choisya ternata?
Choisya ternata is an evergreen shrub from Mexico in the citrus family, Rutaceae. The name refers to the leaves, which are divided into three glossy leaflets that smell strongly of citrus when crushed. White star shaped flowers scented like orange blossom appear in late spring. It forms a naturally rounded, dense mound of foliage.
How big does Mexican Orange Blossom grow?
It reaches roughly 1.5 to 2.5 metres tall and 1.5 to 3 metres wide, growing 30 to 60 centimetres a year. The spread is often greater than the height, so give it room in a bed rather than squeezing it against an edge. Regular light trimming keeps it more compact where space is limited.
When does Choisya ternata flower?
The main flush comes in late spring, October into November, and a lighter second flowering often follows in autumn around March and April. Warm coastal gardens can see scattered flowers outside those windows. The display is heaviest on plants grown in good light, as heavily shaded plants flower only sparsely.
How far apart should I plant Choisya for a hedge?
For a dense informal screen, plant 1 to 1.5 metres apart. For a tighter, more formal hedge, bring the spacing in to about 80 centimetres. Closer planting fills faster but needs more trimming to keep air moving through the plants. Stagger a double row if you want a thicker barrier along a boundary.
Does it need sun or shade?
Both work. Full sun gives the densest habit and the heaviest flowering in cooler and coastal gardens, while part shade is better in hot inland areas where afternoon sun bleaches the leaves. In deep shade the plant becomes open and leggy and flowers poorly. Morning sun with afternoon shade is a reliable compromise.
Can Choisya ternata grow in pots?
Yes. It suits a pot of 40 centimetres or more near an entry or on a terrace, where the scented foliage and flowers are close at hand. Container plants stay smaller than those in the ground. Use a free draining mix, water consistently through summer and repot or root prune every few years.
How do I prune and care for Mexican Orange Blossom?
Trim lightly straight after the spring flowering to hold the shape and encourage the autumn flush. It responds well to a harder cut back into older wood if it becomes leggy. Feed in spring with a general fertiliser, mulch to keep the roots cool, and water through dry spells. Avoid heavy wet soils, which cause root rot.