Contents [hide]
Description
Choisya Ternata, also known as Mexican Orange Blossom, is a beautiful evergreen shrub that belongs to the Rutaceae family. It is native to Mexico and the southwestern United States and is popular for its fragrant white flowers and dark green foliage. It grows up to 8 feet tall and wide and is an excellent choice for adding color and texture to any garden.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Rutaceae |
| Genus | Choisya |
Appearance
The Choisya Ternata has dark green, glossy, and leathery leaves that are 2-3 inches long. The leaves are arranged in opposite pairs along the stems and emit a citrusy fragrance when crushed. The shrub blooms from late spring to early summer with clusters of fragrant white flowers that are about 1 inch in diameter. The flowers attract bees and butterflies and are followed by small, dry, and woody capsules.
Care Guide
Choisya Ternata is an easy-to-care-for shrub that requires minimal maintenance. Here are some tips on how to care for this beautiful plant:
- Water: Choisya Ternata prefers regular watering but is moderately drought-tolerant once established. Water the plant deeply once a week, especially during hot and dry weather.
- Fertilization: Feed the shrub with a balanced fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer to promote healthy growth and flowering.
- Soil: Choisya Ternata grows best in well-drained, fertile, and slightly acidic soil. Amend the soil with compost or peat moss if necessary.
- Sunlight: The shrub prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may produce fewer flowers.
- Hardiness Zones: Choisya Ternata is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Choisya Ternata is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if grown in poorly-drained soil. Some common pests that may affect the shrub include aphids, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Choisya Ternata is native to Mexico and the southwestern United States and grows naturally in rocky and dry areas. It is an excellent choice for Mediterranean-style gardens, rock gardens, and as a specimen plant in borders or containers. The shrub is also deer-resistant.
Question and Answer
Q: When is the best time to prune Choisya Ternata?
A: Prune the shrub in late spring after flowering to promote bushier growth and maintain its shape.
Q: Can Choisya Ternata grow in containers?
A: Yes, the shrub can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate its root system and well-drained.
Q: How often should I fertilize Choisya Ternata?
A: Fertilize the shrub twice a year, in early spring and mid-summer, with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Does Choisya Ternata attract bees and butterflies?
A: Yes, the shrub produces fragrant white flowers that attract bees and butterflies.
Related Plants
- Choisya ‘Aztec Pearl’
- Choisya ‘Goldfingers’
- Choisya ‘Sundance’
- Choisya ‘White Dazzler’
References
- “Choisya ternata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c479
- “Mexican Orange Blossom (Choisya ternata).” Garden Design. https://www.gardendesign.com/plants/choisya-ternata.html
- “Choisya ternata.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/21974/choisya-ternata/details
