Choisya ternata - Mexican orange blossom

Choisya ternata, known as Mexican Orange Blossom, is an elegant evergreen bush valued for its vibrant foliage and fragrant flowering. Its small white flowers bloom abundantly in spring, sometimes also in August-September, surrounded by the scent of orange blossom. The fragrance of the flowers, as well as the foliage when crushed, strongly resembles that of citrus trees, as this plant belongs to the same botany family. Choisya are excellent bushes for our gardens, being both robust, drought-resistant, easy to grow in any well-drained soil and in all exposures in not too cold climates. This vigorous plant is perfect for hedges or for dressing the walls of a house.

Native to Mexico, Choisya ternata belongs to the Rutaceae family, like citrus trees. This species is widespread in the mountains of Mexico, as well as in the southwest of the United States, from Arizona to Texas via New Mexico. This bush is accustomed to dry and hot climates, but its hardiness can sometimes be tested, especially when young and planted in heavy soil. This plant is also susceptible to Phytophthora, a fungus that develops at the collar level in soils that are both warm and humid. Its foliage is evergreen.

This fast-growing large bush averages 1.75 m (5.7 ft) in height and 2 m (6.6 ft) in width at maturity. Its habit is naturally rather rounded, dense, and flexible. It bears very bright, glossy, green opposite leaves, divided into 3 wide leaflets measuring 3 cm to 5 cm long (1.2 in to 2 in) and 2.5 cm (1 in) wide. When crushed, they emit a fresh, rustic, spicy odour, reminiscent of both orange leaves and green peppers. Flowering occurs in March-April and often reoccurs in the second part of summer. At the tips of the branches, compact clusters of small 3 cm (1.2 in) diameter flowers with 5 white petals appear. Highly fragrant, they are popular with pollinating insects.

Choisya ternata prefers a light, flexible, well-drained soil and a sheltered, sunny spot protected from cold winds. It can be planted as a standalone specimen near an entrance or passageway to enjoy its delicate fragrance. It is also suited to being planted in a large container on a terrace or balcony, but will require regular watering. This plant also benefits from regular applications of fertiliser. Choisya ternata can be included in a mixed hedge, alongside Escallonia, myrtles, variegated holly 'Ingramii', old or botanical roses, Abelias, and Philadelphus, for example. Despite its exotic appearance and fragrance, once established, it can withstand brief frosts of around -15°C (5° F), as well as severe summer drought.