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Description
Choisya Dewitteana Aztec Pearl, commonly known as Mexican orange blossom, is a beautiful evergreen shrub that produces fragrant white flowers. It is a hybrid of two Choisya species: Choisya ternata and Choisya arizonica. The plant was first introduced to the market in 1989 by Peter Catt, a British nurseryman. It has become popular among gardeners for its beautiful foliage, fragrant flowers, and low maintenance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain| Eukaryota||————|————-|| Kingdom| Plantae|| Phylum| Angiosperms || Class| Eudicots|| Order| Sapindales|| Family| Rutaceae|| Genus| Choisya|| Species| Dewitteana|| Cultivar| Aztec Pearl |
Appearance
Choisya Dewitteana Aztec Pearl is a compact shrub that can grow up to 2 meters tall and wide. Its leaves are glossy, dark green, and leathery. The leaflets are narrow and pointed, with a length of about 3-6 cm. The plant produces fragrant white flowers from late spring to early summer. The flowers are star-shaped, with a diameter of about 3 cm. The petals are pure white, and the stamens are yellow. The flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
To care for Choisya Dewitteana Aztec Pearl, follow these guidelines:- Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during dry spells. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in spring and summer with a balanced fertilizer. Follow the instructions on the package for the correct dosage.- Soil: Plant the shrub in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The pH should be between 6.0 and 7.0.- Sunlight: Choisya Dewitteana Aztec Pearl prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can reduce its flowering.- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Choisya Dewitteana Aztec Pearl is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it may be susceptible to:- Aphids: These tiny insects can suck the sap out of the plant, causing yellowing and curling of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.- Spider mites: These pests can cause webbing on the leaves and yellowing. Use neem oil or insecticidal soap to control them.- Root rot: Overwatering or poorly-draining soil can cause root rot, which can be fatal to the plant. Avoid overwatering and ensure that the soil is well-draining.
Habitat
Choisya Dewitteana Aztec Pearl is native to Mexico and the southwestern United States. It grows in a variety of habitats, including chaparral, desert, and oak woodland. The plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought, heat, and cold.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Choisya Dewitteana Aztec Pearl tolerate frost?
A: Yes, the plant is hardy in USDA zones 8-10 and can tolerate frost.
Q: Does Choisya Dewitteana Aztec Pearl require a lot of pruning?
A: No, the plant is naturally compact and does not require a lot of pruning. However, you can prune it in late spring or early summer to maintain its shape.
Q: Is Choisya Dewitteana Aztec Pearl toxic to pets?
A: The plant is not toxic to pets or humans.
Q: Can Choisya Dewitteana Aztec Pearl be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers. Use a well-draining potting mix and ensure that the container has drainage holes.
Related Plants
– Choisya ternata- Choisya arizonica- Choisya x dewitteana ‘Goldfingers’- Choisya x dewitteana ‘Limo’- Choisya x dewitteana ‘White Dazzler’
References
– “Choisya dewitteana Aztec Pearl.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c270.- “Choisya dewitteana ‘Aztec Pearl’.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/16552/Choisya-dewitteana-Aztec-Pearl/Details.- “Mexican Orange Blossom.” Gardenia.net, www.gardenia.net/plant/choisya-ternata-mexican-orange-blossom.
