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Choisya ternata
P23 (5 Litre Pot)
Plant Highlights: Evergreen glossy foliage • Fragrant white spring flowers • Citrus-scented leaves • Ideal for hedging and borders • Reliable year-round structure
Choisya ternata, often known as Mexican Orange Blossom, is a dependable evergreen shrub valued for its glossy foliage, fragrant flowers and year-round presence in the garden. In spring, clusters of star-shaped white flowers cover the plant, filling the surrounding area with a sweet citrus-like fragrance. In favourable growing conditions, a lighter second flush of flowers may appear later in the season.
The rich green leaves are naturally divided into three leaflets and release a pleasant aromatic scent when gently brushed or crushed. With its dense, rounded habit, Choisya is equally at home as a specimen shrub, informal hedge or part of a mixed border. Supplied in a 5-litre pot, it is an excellent choice for creating reliable structure and long-lasting interest in gardens across Ireland.
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Choisya ternata |
| Common Name | Mexican Orange Blossom |
| Plant Type | Evergreen shrub |
| Position | Full sun or partial shade |
| Soil | Fertile, well-drained soil |
| Flower Colour | White |
| Flowering Period | Mainly April to May, with a possible lighter repeat later in the season |
| Foliage | Glossy, aromatic, evergreen |
| Mature Height | Approximately 1.5–2.5m |
| Mature Spread | Approximately 1.5–2.5m |
| Growth Habit | Dense, rounded and bushy |
| Hardiness | RHS H4 (−10°C to −5°C). |
| Growth Rate | Moderate |
| Soil pH | Acid, neutral or alkaline |
Grow in full sun or partial shade in a sheltered position. It performs well in most garden settings and appreciates protection from cold, drying winds in more exposed locations.
Water regularly during the establishment period and during prolonged dry spells. Container-grown plants should be monitored more frequently, especially in warm weather.
Plant in fertile, free-draining soil enriched with organic matter. Good drainage is particularly beneficial in heavier Irish soils to keep roots healthy through wet winters.
Prune after the main flush of flowers if shaping is required. Light trimming helps maintain a neat, bushy habit while preserving the following season's flowering potential.
The fragrant flowers are often compared to orange blossom, giving rise to the common name "Mexican Orange Blossom", although the plant is grown primarily as an ornamental evergreen shrub.

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