Description and Characteristics
Choisya ternata, commonly known as Mexican Orange Blossom, is a compact, evergreen shrub prized for its glossy, aromatic foliage and fragrant white flowers. At 25–30 cm tall, young plants are perfect for container growing, small borders, or establishing low hedges. Over time, Choisya ternata will grow into a rounded shrub reaching up to 1.5–2.5 m in height and spread, but it can be maintained at a smaller size with light pruning.
The leathery, trifoliate leaves release a citrus scent when crushed, and clusters of star-shaped white flowers appear in late spring, often with a smaller second flush in late summer or early autumn. Its neat form, evergreen presence, and scented appeal make it a valuable shrub for year-round structure and multi-season interest.
Choisya ternata is low maintenance, drought-tolerant once established, and ideal for urban gardens, mixed shrub borders, foundation planting, and formal or informal hedging.
Evergreen shrub with glossy green, aromatic foliage
Fragrant white flowers bloom in May and again in August–September
Height at purchase: 25–30 cm; eventual size: 1.5–2.5 m
Dense, rounded form with year-round structure
Great for hedging, borders, containers, and foundation planting
Growing Conditions and Maintenance
Choisya ternata is easy to grow and adaptable, tolerating a range of soil types and light conditions. It thrives with minimal intervention, making it ideal for both novice and experienced gardeners.
Light Requirements:
Prefers full sun to light shade
Tolerates north- or east-facing aspects
Flowering is best in sunny, sheltered locations
Soil Preferences:
Grows in well-drained, fertile soil
Tolerates chalk, loam, or sandy soils
Ideal pH: neutral to slightly alkaline
Watering Needs:
Water regularly until established
Once established, drought-tolerant
Avoid waterlogged soils, especially in winter
Feeding:
Apply a general-purpose fertiliser in spring
Mulch annually with compost or