Mexican Orange Blossom Hedge (Choisya ternata)

Mexican Orange Blossom Description

Choisya ternata is a versatile evergreen that can provide year-round foliage and a dense appearance when maintained as a hedge. Its fragrant white flowers bring additional interest during the flowering season.

It is particularly suitable for gardeners looking for a hedge that combines evergreen coverage, attractive flowers and fragrance. The plants can also be used alongside other shrubs and planting schemes to add height and structure to borders.

Growing Mexican Orange Blossom

For the best results, plant Choisya ternata in well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. A sheltered position can help protect the plant from particularly exposed conditions.

Water newly planted shrubs regularly while they establish, particularly during prolonged dry periods. Once established, Mexican Orange Blossom is relatively easy to maintain with occasional watering during dry spells and routine pruning to maintain its shape.

Its average growth rate of 20–40cm per year means it can gradually develop into a substantial garden shrub or hedge when given suitable growing conditions.

Pruning Advice

The best time to prune Mexican Orange Blossom is generally after its main flush of flowering in late spring or early summer. This helps maintain the plant's shape while allowing it to produce healthy new growth.

Light Pruning

For established hedges, use light pruning to:
Maintain the desired height and shape.
Remove stray or unwanted branches.
Encourage a bushier, more compact habit.
Keep the hedge looking neat and balanced.
Avoid removing more growth than necessary, particularly if you want to retain the plant's natural form and flowering potential.

Rejuvenation Pruning

If an older plant becomes leggy or overgrown, more substantial pruning may be appropriate. Removing up to around one-third of the plant's growth can help encourage fresh shoots.
For significant pruning, avoid cutting back excessively in one go. Gradual rejuvenation is generally preferable for maintaining a healthy, attractive plant.

Further Information

Planting distances are largely a matter of preference. For bare root plants, spacing them at 3 plants per meter is sufficient, 5 plants is optimal, and 7 plants in a double staggered row will result in a denser hedge more quickly. Generally, smaller plants should be planted at a higher density. For cell-grown plants, spacing at 4 plants per meter in a single row or ideally 6 plants per meter in a staggered row is recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How fast does Mexican Orange Blossom grow?

Mexican Orange Blossom has an average growth rate of approximately 20–40cm per year when grown in suitable conditions. Growth can vary depending on soil, sunlight, moisture and general plant care.

2. Can Mexican Orange Blossom be grown as a hedge?

Yes. Choisya ternata is well suited to hedging thanks to its evergreen foliage and naturally compact growth. Regular pruning can help maintain a neat, dense hedge at the height you require.

3. Does Choisya prefer sun or shade?

Choisya can grow in full sun or partial shade. A well-drained soil and sheltered position are recommended for healthy growth, particularly in exposed gardens.

4. What are some common problems that Choisya can have?

Choisya is generally straightforward to grow when planted in suitable conditions. Poor drainage, prolonged dryness or exposed conditions can affect plant health. Providing well-drained soil, appropriate watering and a suitable sheltered position can help the plant establish successfully.

5. Is Mexican Orange Blossom evergreen?

Yes. Mexican Orange Blossom (Choisya ternata) is an evergreen shrub, so it provides attractive green foliage throughout the year. Its evergreen character makes it a useful choice for garden structure and hedging.

Delivery & Returns

Delivery Within 50 Miles

Free delivery is available within 50 miles of our nursery, making it convenient to have your Mexican Orange Blossom plants delivered directly to your property within our local delivery area.

Delivery outside the 50-mile area may also be available depending on your location and order. If you are unsure whether your address falls within the delivery area, please contact us before placing your order.

Plants are carefully prepared for delivery to help them arrive in good condition.

UK Mainland Delivery

Delivery charges and minimum order values vary according to the size and type of packaging required:

Standard Sized Boxes - Bare root plants up to 1.2m and pots up to 7.5L: Free UK Mainland delivery on orders over £100, otherwise £7.99.
Tall Sized Boxes - Bare root plants 1.2m and above: Free UK Mainland delivery on orders over £100, otherwise £14.99.
Pallets - Root balls, large pots 10L+, trees and similar products: Free UK Mainland delivery on orders over £350, otherwise £60.
Pleached Trees - Specialist delivery: Free UK Mainland delivery on orders over £1,500, otherwise £450.

Returns

If you need to discuss a return or an issue with your order, please contact us as soon as possible with your order details. Returns and any applicable conditions are subject to the relevant terms for the product and delivery type.