Back

Click here to search for a different flower

[?]

Open the Advanced Search

Mexican Orange Blossom

Choisya ternata

Please keep in mind that it is illegal to uproot a plant without the landowner's consent and care should be taken at all times not to damage wild plants. Wild plants should never be picked for pleasure and some plants are protected by law.
For more information please download the BSBI Code of Conduct PDF document.

Plant Profile
Other Information
Distribution Map

Flowering Months:

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Order:

Sapindales

Family:

Rutaceae (Rue)

Type:

Evergreen shrub

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Maximum Size:

2.5 metres tall

Habitats:

Gardens, mountains, parks, scrub, seaside, wasteland, woodland.

Flower:

White, 5 petals

5 petals (sometimes 6). Between 8 and 15 stamens. 1 yellow stigma. The flowers appear in clusters of 3 to 6 at the end of the shoots. Mexican Orange Blossom is an insect-pollinated shrub which attracts many butterflies.

Fruit:

The Mexican Orange Blossom produces small, round fruits with a glossy texture. These fruits are typically about 1-2 cm in diameter and have a greenish hue when young, gradually turning to a deep purple or black as they ripen. The fruits are not commonly consumed, as the plant is primarily grown for its fragrant flowers and ornamental value.

Leaves:

The leaves of the Mexican Orange Blossom are dark green and glossy in appearance. They are composed of three leaflets, each with a serrated or toothed edge. The leaflets are lance-shaped and arranged in an opposite pattern along the stems. The overall leaf structure gives the plant an elegant and lush appearance, contributing to its ornamental value in gardens and landscapes.

Aroma:

The fragrance of the Mexican Orange Blossom is delightful and citrusy. The plant's aromatic white flowers emit a sweet and zesty scent, reminiscent of orange blossoms, which contributes to its popularity in gardens. The fragrance is often described as fresh, uplifting, and invigorating, making the Mexican Orange Blossom a sought-after choice for adding a pleasant scent to outdoor spaces.

Other Names:

Mexican Orange, Mexican Orange Flower.

Frequency (UK):

Occasionally seen

Summary

Choisya ternata, commonly known as Mexican Orange Blossom or Mexican Orange, is a species of flowering shrub in the Rutaceae family. It is native to Mexico. It grows to be around 2.5 meters tall and has a rounded habit, with glossy, evergreen leaves that are dark green in color. The flowers are fragrant, white and are produced in clusters at the ends of branches. They bloom in late spring to early summer and sometimes again in the fall. This plant is used as an ornamental plant for its attractive flowers and its glossy leaves. It is tolerant to a wide range of soil and climatic conditions, and it is drought tolerant once established. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soils. It is also used as hedge or specimen plant in gardens and landscapes.

Blog

Mexican Orange Blossom, also known as Choisya ternata, is a beautiful and fragrant evergreen shrub that is native to Mexico and the southwestern United States. This popular garden plant is widely cultivated for its glossy foliage, profuse clusters of fragrant white flowers, and its ability to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. In this blog post, we will explore the features and benefits of Mexican Orange Blossom, as well as its growing requirements and maintenance tips.

Features of Mexican Orange Blossom

Mexican Orange Blossom is an evergreen shrub that typically grows to a height of 6-8 feet and spreads 4-6 feet wide. It has dark green, glossy, aromatic leaves that are composed of three leaflets, hence its botanical name "ternata." The shrub produces clusters of fragrant, white flowers in the spring and often blooms again in the summer and fall. The flowers are attractive to bees and butterflies, making it a great addition to a pollinator garden. Mexican Orange Blossom also produces small, green fruits that turn brown as they ripen and contain seeds that can be harvested and propagated.

Benefits of Mexican Orange Blossom

Mexican Orange Blossom has several benefits that make it a popular garden plant. Its glossy foliage and fragrant flowers make it an attractive addition to any garden, and its evergreen nature means it provides year-round interest. The plant is also drought-tolerant once established and can thrive in a variety of soil types and pH levels. Mexican Orange Blossom is also relatively low-maintenance and can be pruned to maintain its shape and size.

Growing Requirements of Mexican Orange Blossom

Mexican Orange Blossom is a relatively easy plant to grow, but it does have some specific requirements. It prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic to neutral in pH, and it thrives in full sun to partial shade. The plant can tolerate some drought but should be watered regularly during dry spells. Mexican Orange Blossom can be propagated from seeds or cuttings, and it is best planted in the spring or fall when the soil is moist and temperatures are mild.

Maintenance Tips for Mexican Orange Blossom

Mexican Orange Blossom requires some maintenance to keep it looking its best. It should be pruned annually in the late winter or early spring to maintain its shape and remove any dead or damaged branches. The plant should also be fertilized once or twice a year with a balanced fertilizer. Pests and diseases are not usually a problem with Mexican Orange Blossom, but it can be susceptible to aphids, scale insects, and fungal diseases in humid conditions.

In conclusion, Mexican Orange Blossom is a beautiful and fragrant evergreen shrub that is easy to grow and maintain. Its glossy foliage, profuse clusters of fragrant white flowers, and ability to attract pollinators make it a great addition to any garden. By providing the plant with the proper growing requirements and regular maintenance, gardeners can enjoy the benefits of Mexican Orange Blossom for years to come.

Facts

Here are some additional facts and tips about Mexican Orange Blossom:

Mexican Orange Blossom is not actually related to oranges or any other citrus fruit. Its common name comes from the similarity of its fragrant flowers to orange blossoms.
In addition to its ornamental value, Mexican Orange Blossom has also been traditionally used in herbal medicine. Its leaves and flowers contain essential oils that are believed to have antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Mexican Orange Blossom is a versatile plant that can be used in a variety of garden settings. It works well as a hedge or border plant, as a specimen plant in a mixed border, or in a container on a patio or balcony.
When planting Mexican Orange Blossom, make sure to give it plenty of space to spread out. It can grow quite wide, and crowded plants are more susceptible to pests and diseases.
To propagate Mexican Orange Blossom from cuttings, take a 4-6 inch cutting from a healthy, mature plant and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a pot filled with moist, well-draining soil and keep it in a warm, bright spot out of direct sunlight. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and in a few weeks, the cutting should root and begin to grow.
While Mexican Orange Blossom is generally a low-maintenance plant, it may benefit from a light pruning in the summer after the first flush of blooms has faded. This can encourage a second round of flowering and help keep the plant looking neat and tidy.

In conclusion, Mexican Orange Blossom is a versatile and attractive plant that is well-suited to a variety of garden settings. With its fragrant flowers, glossy foliage, and low-maintenance nature, it is a popular choice for gardeners looking to add color and interest to their landscapes. By following the proper growing requirements and maintenance tips, gardeners can enjoy the beauty and benefits of Mexican Orange Blossom for many years to come.

Additional Information

Mexican Orange Blossom, or Choisya ternata, is an evergreen shrub that is native to Mexico and the southwestern United States. It is known for its glossy, dark green leaves that emit a pleasant aroma when crushed, and its fragrant clusters of white flowers that bloom in the spring and sometimes again in the summer and fall. This popular garden plant is valued for its ornamental value, as well as its ability to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Mexican Orange Blossom can grow to be 6-8 feet tall and 4-6 feet wide, making it a great choice for hedges, borders, and specimen plants in mixed borders. It prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic to neutral in pH, and it thrives in full sun to partial shade. Once established, Mexican Orange Blossom is drought-tolerant, although it should be watered regularly during dry spells.

Mexican Orange Blossom is relatively low-maintenance and can be pruned annually in late winter or early spring to maintain its shape and size. This is also a good time to remove any dead or damaged branches. The plant should be fertilized once or twice a year with a balanced fertilizer to encourage healthy growth and flowering. While pests and diseases are not usually a problem with Mexican Orange Blossom, it can be susceptible to aphids, scale insects, and fungal diseases in humid conditions.

Propagation of Mexican Orange Blossom can be done from seeds or cuttings. To propagate from cuttings, take a 4-6 inch cutting from a healthy, mature plant and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a pot filled with moist, well-draining soil and keep it in a warm, bright spot out of direct sunlight. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and in a few weeks, the cutting should root and begin to grow.

Mexican Orange Blossom is a versatile plant that can be used in a variety of garden settings. It works well as a hedge or border plant, as a specimen plant in a mixed border, or in a container on a patio or balcony. Its fragrant flowers and glossy foliage make it a popular choice for gardeners looking to add color and interest to their landscapes.

In addition to its ornamental value, Mexican Orange Blossom has also been traditionally used in herbal medicine. Its leaves and flowers contain essential oils that are believed to have antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. These properties have led to its use in natural remedies for various ailments, such as colds, headaches, and digestive issues. However, it is important to note that these uses have not been scientifically proven, and individuals should always consult with a healthcare professional before using any plant-based remedies.

Mexican Orange Blossom is also a popular choice for landscaping in areas with Mediterranean climates, such as California and parts of Europe. Its ability to thrive in warm, dry conditions with little water makes it an ideal plant for drought-tolerant landscapes. Additionally, its white flowers and glossy foliage can provide a striking contrast to other drought-tolerant plants like succulents and cacti.

It is worth noting that Mexican Orange Blossom is not actually related to oranges or any other citrus fruit, despite its common name. Its name comes from the similarity of its fragrant flowers to orange blossoms. In fact, its leaves and flowers have a distinct aroma that is reminiscent of citrus, but with a slightly spicy undertone.

In conclusion, Mexican Orange Blossom is a versatile and attractive plant that is well-suited to a variety of garden settings. With its fragrant flowers, glossy foliage, and low-maintenance nature, it is a popular choice for gardeners looking to add color and interest to their landscapes. Its traditional uses in herbal medicine and ability to thrive in drought-tolerant landscapes make it an even more valuable addition to any garden. By following the proper growing requirements and maintenance tips, gardeners can enjoy the beauty and benefits of Mexican Orange Blossom for many years to come.

Video

Mexican Orange Blossom filmed at the following locations:

Carnforth, Lancashire: 13th May 2023 and the 3rd September 2023
Rivington, Lancashire: 21st August 2023

Please remember to Like and Subscribe to the WildFlowerWeb YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@wildflower-web

Reproduced by kind permission of the BSBI.

Click to open an Interactive Map