Description
Choisya ternata, also known as Mexican orange blossom, is a beautiful and fragrant evergreen shrub that is native to Mexico and the southwestern United States. This plant is prized for its attractive glossy green leaves, fragrant white flowers, and its low maintenance requirements. The leaves of this plant are arranged in groups of three, giving it its common name of ternata. The fragrant flowers are produced in clusters, typically in late spring and early summer, and can attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies to the garden. As a low-maintenance and drought-tolerant plant, Choisya ternata is an excellent choice for borders, hedges or as a specimen plant. The plant can also be used in container gardens, where its fragrant flowers can be enjoyed up close. Overall, Choisya ternata is a beautiful and hardy addition to any UK garden.
Key Facts
- Common Name(s):Mexican orange blossom
- Hardiness:Fully hardy through most of the UK
- How big will I get? Choisya ternata can grow to a height of 3m and a spread of 2.5m.
- Did You Know That:The flowers of Choisya species are very popular with honeybees?
Plant Calendar
A rough guide to how this plant will change through the year.
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | June | July | Aug | Sept | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
Flowering Time | ||||||||||||
Foliage Colour |
J | F | M | A | M | J | J | A | S | O | N | D |
Care Guide
Soil Requirements
Choisya ternata prefers soil with good drainage and does not tolerate standing water. This plant can grow in soil with a wide range of pH levels, it is not picky about the pH level of the soil.
Best Position
Choisya ternata prefers a sheltered position and requires full sun to thrive, this consists of more than six hours of direct sunshine per day.
Maintenance
Choisya ternata should be cut back after it finishes flowering will promote growth the following year by redirecting energy from seed production and foliage maintenance to root growth.
Pest, Diseases and Wildlife
Choisya ternata can have problems with snails, and it tends not to have problems with diseases. It is not considered to be toxic.