The Mexican Orange Tree hides many enchanted secrets. What if you went to discover this shrub? It will win your heart with its small starry flowers and robust foliage. You will know everything about its history, its planting, and its maintenance. Psst, we even give you our experts’ favorites. So, are you ready to let yourself be transported on this exceptional plant journey?
Do you know the Mexican Orange Tree? From its Latin name Choisya ternata, it is an evergreen shrub appreciated for its bright foliage and fragrant flowering. Originally from Mexico, it belongs to the Rutaceae family, like citrus fruits. From the beginning of spring, it is adorned with small, delicate white star-shaped flowers and beautiful shiny leaves.
Generally speaking, the Mexican Orange Tree is a true botanical marvel that will have the merit of adorning your exterior. Let yourself be guided through the enchanting world of this little shrub and discover how it can illuminate your garden. ☀️
In the footsteps of the Mexican orange tree ⚜️
The Mexican Orange Tree has captivated hearts for generations! You may have also seen it under the name “ Flower of the Gods ”? Indeed, a legend tells that in the Mexican regions, the Mexican Orange Tree was offered to humans by the gods themselves, in homage to their love for the Earth. The first flowers to bloom would then be stars coming down from the sky to brighten up the gardens. This legend adds a beautiful magical touch to this shrub, linking it to the history and culture of Mexico.
Today, Choisya is widespread in the mountains of Mexico, the southwest of the United States, Arizona, Texas, and even New Mexico. In France, it was introduced in the 19th century by explorers and botanists during their travels in America. Since then, it has been very popular in gardens for its hardiness, drought resistance, and ease of cultivation. 🥰
Now that you know more about its history, would you like to install it in your green corner?
Our special planting guide 👩🌾
But when to plant the Mexican orange tree? You can plant it in spring when the Ice Saints have indeed passed. Do you tend to put everything off until the next day? Don’t let the days pass because the earth heats up very quickly when summer arrives! To benefit from good growth, the plant will need to root well before temperatures rise. However, if you live in a region of the south of France where the climate is warmer and drier, it will be better to wait until autumn arrives to plant. 🍂
Where to plant it? Depending on your region, the Mexican Orange Tree will flourish in different ways. In cold regions, prefer a warm location in full sun. On the contrary, in very sunny and dry regions, it will be better to opt for partial shade. Choisya appreciates light, supple, and above all well-drained soils. Psst, he’s not a big fan of humidity problems… Finally, whether you choose to leave him in a pot on your terrace, or the ground in a flower bed, make sure that he has enough space to properly grow and prosper. 🪴
And how to proceed with planting? After choosing your location, start by preparing your floor. Loosen it with a spade or grelinette and don’t hesitate to add compost. This will improve the structure of your soil while nourishing it. Then dig a hole twice as wide as the plant’s root ball, but the same depth. Carefully remove the Choisya from its pot, taking care not to damage its roots. Place it in the hole and fill it with the soil and compost mixture. Finally, water abundantly to encourage the establishment of roots. 🪱
How to maintain the Mexican Orange tree sustainably?
During the first year, he will need you! Water it regularly to help it establish strong roots. Once well established, after 2 or 3 years of cultivation, it can do without watering in summer in all regions.
Regarding size, it is rarely necessary. If you wish, you can prune it lightly after flowering. This will promote good growth and stimulate new shoots. 🌸
If you live in a region where winters are quite harsh, protect your Mexican orange tree by mulching it and covering it with a winter cover. You will make his life easier and will be able to discover him as soon as the sunny days arrive. Enough to get through the winter without any unpleasant surprises!
Our favorite varieties at Draw Me A Garden 💚
1. Choisya Goldfinger: This is our favorite variety of Mexican Orange tree. It is distinguished by its bright golden foliage and fragrant white flowers. The smell of orange trees that it emanates propels us into a gourmet atmosphere in the heart of the garden. Easy to maintain, it won’t take up too much of your time!
2. The Choisya Aztec Pearl: Make way for the most aesthetic and elegant variety of Mexican Orange trees. Its small starry white flowers make it unique. Its lush foliage adapts to all lighting conditions. Do you have a small garden? Its compact port makes it quite ideal!
3. The Choisya Apple Blossom: This variety is cherished for its glossy green foliage and double flowers in delicate pink tones. They evoke the sweetness of the apple blossoms that we love so much. Its intoxicating scent adds a real olfactory dimension to any garden. What are you waiting for to install it in your green corner?
Invite a permanent ray of sunshine into your outdoor space with the Mexican Orange Tree! From its enchanting history to its careful planting, every aspect of this plant offers a beautiful plant experience to all nature lovers. But the Choisya is not the only one to have in your garden! What if you set out to discover the epimedium? This flower is just waiting for you to sparkle in your garden.
