ShrubsChoisya ternata
Mexican Orange
The Mexican orange is an evergreen shrub with glossy, trifoliate leaves that release a delightful orange scent when touched. In April and May masses of star-shaped white flowers appear that are equally fragrant. A versatile shrub for both sun and partial shade.
Characteristics
- Sun
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Water
- Medium
- Height
- 150–250 cm
- Spread
- 150–250 cm
- Hardiness zone
- 7–10
- Family
- Rutaceae
- Evergreen
- Yes
- Flower colors
- white
- Wildlife value
- bees, butterflies
Bloom period
Care guide
Plant in a sheltered spot in well-drained soil. The shrub tolerates light frost but may suffer leaf damage in severe winters. Water regularly during dry spells. Feeding is rarely needed in normal garden soil.
Pruning tips
Prune immediately after flowering in May to correct the shape and keep growth compact. The shrub responds well to moderate pruning but recovers slowly from hard cutting back. Remove any frost damage in spring.
Good companions
ShrubsLavandula angustifolia
English Lavender
Lavender is a beloved herb with aromatic silver-green foliage and purple-blue flower spikes. This evergreen plant blooms profusely from June to August and is remarkably drought-tolerant, attracting butterflies and bees to the garden.
ShrubsBuxus sempervirens
Boxwood
Boxwood is an evergreen shrub with small, glossy dark green leaves that is ideal for topiary and hedging. The plant grows slowly and can live for hundreds of years. Small green-yellow flowers appear in April and May, attracting early bees.
ShrubsHydrangea macrophylla
Hydrangea
Hydrangea is a popular garden shrub with large, globe-shaped flower heads blooming from June through September. The flowers turn blue in acidic soil and pink in alkaline soil. A sturdy plant that thrives in sheltered spots with partial shade.