This evergreen shrub is well-known for having the star-shaped white flowers that bring with it a citrus smell between the months of April and May. But for the rest of the season, you can enjoy glossy foliage with leaves that look like small palm tree leaves. Colloquially referred to as the Mexican orange blossom, the species made its way to Europe in 1826 and ever since then has become a popular shrub for the small amount of attention and maintenance required, and more importantly the ability to thrive in any soil against any diseases or pests, and with no pruning.
When grown in containers, Mexican Orange Blossom may require regular daily watering, especially during summer. It only needs moderate amounts in winter. The best thing to do is to occasionally check the soil to prevent it from completely drying out. Just the same, it is important to avoid overwatering.
The Choisya ternata may need fertilisers as soon as it blooms in late spring or early summer, and during the whole summer season.
The Mexican Orange Blossom is easy to trim because of its thin stems. However, it may require regular trimming since it could grow fast, up to 60 cm per year, and could even reach to heights of 2 metres or more. Cut above the sprouts to shape the shrubs.
These shrubs will tolerate low temperatures but may suffer some frost damage at temperatures of below -3°C. They can cope with even lower temperatures, down to -7°C or lower, as long as they are protected from cold winds.
