Choisya ternata 25-30 CM

Description and Characteristics

Choisya ternata, commonly known as Mexican Orange Blossom, is a compact, evergreen shrub prized for its glossy, aromatic foliage and fragrant white flowers. At 25–30 cm tall, young plants are perfect for container growing, small borders, or establishing low hedges. Over time, Choisya ternata will grow into a rounded shrub reaching up to 1.5–2.5 m in height and spread, but it can be maintained at a smaller size with light pruning.

The leathery, trifoliate leaves release a citrus scent when crushed, and clusters of star-shaped white flowers appear in late spring, often with a smaller second flush in late summer or early autumn. Its neat form, evergreen presence, and scented appeal make it a valuable shrub for year-round structure and multi-season interest.

Choisya ternata is low maintenance, drought-tolerant once established, and ideal for urban gardens, mixed shrub borders, foundation planting, and formal or informal hedging.

• Evergreen shrub with glossy green, aromatic foliage

• Fragrant white flowers bloom in May and again in August–September

• Height at purchase: 25–30 cm; eventual size: 1.5–2.5 m

• Dense, rounded form with year-round structure

• Great for hedging, borders, containers, and foundation planting

Growing Conditions and Maintenance

Choisya ternata is easy to grow and adaptable, tolerating a range of soil types and light conditions. It thrives with minimal intervention, making it ideal for both novice and experienced gardeners.

• Light Requirements:

  • Prefers full sun to light shade

  • Tolerates north- or east-facing aspects

  • Flowering is best in sunny, sheltered locations

• Soil Preferences:

  • Grows in well-drained, fertile soil

  • Tolerates chalk, loam, or sandy soils

  • Ideal pH: neutral to slightly alkaline

• Watering Needs:

  • Water regularly until established

  • Once established, drought-tolerant

  • Avoid waterlogged soils, especially in winter

• Feeding:

  • Apply a general-purpose fertiliser in spring

  • Mulch annually with compost or leaf mould to retain moisture

• Pruning and Maintenance:

  • Trim lightly after flowering to maintain shape and size

  • Remove dead or leggy stems in spring to encourage bushy growth

  • Choisya responds well to rejuvenation pruning if overgrown

• Winter Care:

  • Hardy in Zones 7–10 (RHS H4)

  • Shelter from cold, drying winds in exposed locations

  • Young plants may benefit from fleece protection during harsh frosts

Garden Uses, Companion Plants, and Seasonal Appeal

Choisya ternata provides structure, fragrance, and reliable evergreen colour, making it an excellent shrub for year-round interest. It’s especially effective when planted where its scent can be appreciated—near paths, entrances, or patios.

• Design Applications:

  • Perfect for low hedging, mixed shrub borders, or foundation planting

  • Suitable for containers, especially when young (25–30 cm plants)

  • Can be used as a specimen plant, backdrop, or scented shrub near seating areas

• Companion Plants:

  • Pairs beautifully with Lavandula, Salvia, Hebe, Pittosporum, and Roses

  • Contrasts well with silver or purple foliage (e.g. Heuchera, Cotinus)

  • Complements spring bulbs like Narcissus and Allium

• Pollinator Benefits:

  • Flowers attract bees and early pollinators

  • Valuable nectar source in spring and early autumn

  • A great plant for wildlife-friendly gardens

• Container Use:

  • Young plants (25–30 cm) are ideal for pots and planters

  • Use peat-free, well-drained compost with added grit

  • Position in sheltered, sunny locations and water regularly

• Pest and Disease Resistance:

  • Generally pest- and disease-free

  • May rarely be affected by leaf spot or aphids—treat early if needed

  • Ensure good air circulation around mature plants

• Size
  25-30 CM C2

We currently only deliver within the island of Ireland, other countries can be quoted for by contacting [email protected] or via telephone on 06964084
 

Standard Delivery is FREE on orders over €250*

All standard deliveries will be completed within 5-7 working days via Fastway Couriers, any delay to this delivery time, the customer will be notified by One of our staff.

The in-Store delivery charge will vary compared with online, in-store delivery charge is done on a case by case basis. 

* Only mainland Ireland addresses qualify for free delivery.
 

Live Plants Delivery

Our live plants are packed with care and diligence by our staff, our horticulturists review each plant before despatch to ensure quality is maintained.
Live Plant delivery charges are not calculated on weight but on the space required per package to ensure safe delivery, so delivery charges may vary as some plants require more space than others when packed.
All live plants are despatched within 3-5 working days where possible, our couriers aim to deliver within 48 hours of despatch from our Garden Centre to allow the plant to arrive in healthy condition.
 

Click & Collect

Can’t wait for delivery? Why not try our FREE Click & Collect service? Simply make your purchase online and collect it from our store located in Croagh Co. Limerick. Our staff will contact you by phone when your order is ready for collection (Please allow 24 hours minimum). When collecting your item, call the store on 069-64084. We will then load into your car as required. This service is available in-store 9am – 6pm Monday – Saturday (No collections on Sundays)

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If you have any further questions about the online order payment please contact us via ­069 640 84 or mail.