CHOISYA ternata Sundance (Lich)

Planting Choisya ternata ‘Sundance’

Choisya ternata ‘Sundance’, commonly known as Mexican Orange Blossom, is a bright, evergreen shrub valued for its golden-yellow foliage and fragrant white flowers. It adds year-round colour and structure to borders, while its citrus-scented leaves bring additional sensory appeal.

Choosing the right position

• Prefers full sun to partial shade
• Best foliage colour develops in a sunny position
• Tolerates light shade, though leaf colour may be less vibrant
• Choose a sheltered spot, protected from cold winds
• Ideal for borders, informal hedging, or large containers

Soil requirements

• Grows well in most soil types, provided they are well-drained
• Prefers moderately fertile, slightly acidic to neutral soil
• Avoid heavy, waterlogged soils which can lead to root problems
• Improve drainage with grit or organic matter if needed
• Benefits from added compost to enrich the soil before planting

How to plant in the ground

• Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and similar depth
• Loosen the soil at the base to encourage root growth
• Place the plant so the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface
• Backfill with soil mixed with organic matter and firm gently
• Water thoroughly after planting and mulch around the base

Planting in containers

• Use a large pot with good drainage holes
• Fill with a high-quality, free-draining compost
• Choose a container that allows room for growth
• Water well after planting and allow excess water to drain
• Position in a bright, sheltered location

Ongoing Care and Maintenance

Choisya ‘Sundance’ is a low-maintenance shrub that performs well with minimal attention once established.

Watering

• Water regularly during the first growing season to establish roots
• Once established, it is moderately drought tolerant
• Water during prolonged dry periods, especially in summer
• Container-grown plants require more frequent watering
• Avoid waterlogging, particularly in winter

Feeding

• Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring to encourage healthy growth
• A second light feed in mid-summer can support flowering
• Container plants benefit from occasional liquid feeding
• Avoid excessive feeding, which may lead to soft growth

Pruning

• Lightly prune after flowering to maintain shape
• Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches
• Can be trimmed to size if it outgrows its space
• Avoid heavy pruning into old wood, as recovery may be slow

Mulching

• Apply a layer of organic mulch in spring
• Helps retain moisture and suppress weeds
• Keep mulch away from the base of the stems

Seasonal Care and Common Issues

With proper care, Choisya ‘Sundance’ will provide year-round interest and reliable flowering.

Winter care

• Generally hardy but may suffer in severe or prolonged frost
• Protect from cold, drying winds
• In colder areas, consider planting near a wall or in a sheltered spot
• Container plants can be moved to a more protected location
• Mulch roots in autumn to help insulate against cold

Flowering and growth

• Produces clusters of fragrant white flowers in spring, often with a second flush in late summer
• Flowering is best in sunny positions
• Regular light pruning after flowering encourages bushy growth
• Healthy plants maintain vibrant golden foliage throughout the year

Common problems

• Yellowing leaves may indicate poor drainage or overwatering
• Leaf scorch can occur in exposed, windy or very hot conditions
• Frost damage may cause leaf browning or dieback
• Generally pest-free, though occasional aphids may appear
• Poor flowering can result from excessive shade or lack of feeding

Choisya ternata ‘Sundance’ is a versatile and attractive shrub that brings colour, fragrance and structure to the garden. Its golden foliage provides year-round interest, while its scented blooms add seasonal charm. Easy to grow and maintain, it is an excellent choice for both borders and containers, offering reliable performance with minimal effort.