What is Choisya?

Choisya is a genus of evergreen flowering shrubs native to the Southwest, spanning several US states, as well as Mexico. These plants are known by common names such as mock orange and Mexican orange, referencing the distinctive aroma of the leaves and flowers. They can be cultivated in the garden as hedges, foundation plantings, and massed plantings. Nurseries and garden supply stores may carry seedlings, and it is also possible to propagate these plants from cuttings, if a mature plant is available.

These members of the citrus family grow relatively compact and low to the ground. They have green, glossy foliage, with most species having broad leaves, although a few are more narrow. The star-shaped white flowers appear in the spring and are highly aromatic. Pruning can encourage the shrub to flower again in warm climates, and some species have flowers tinted with pink on the underside, adding more visual interest.

People living in United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) zones seven through 10 can usually cultivate Choisya species successfully. In the cooler end of this range, it is important to establish the plants in a sheltered area where they get lots of sun and are protected from the wind. During frosts, wrapping the plants may be recommended to prevent damage to the foliage, as the plants are tolerant of frost, but are not extremely frost hardy.

When selecting a spot in the garden for a Choisya shrub, people should prepare the soil by working it well so it will be rich and well drained. In warmer climates, partial shade to full sun exposure is suitable. Water requirements can be high, and people with low water gardens may want to seek out cultivars bred for drought tolerance.

Choisya species take very well to pruning for shaping and can be kept neat and compact, as well as being trimmed into specific desired shapes, depending on the setting and the need. The flowers attract bees, birds, and butterflies, making these plants excellent choices for a garden where people want to encourage animal visitors. Planted under a window or by a porch, Choisya can make the transition between indoor and outdoor spaces more aromatic during blooming season, and will provide a pleasing evergreen plant to look at during the rest of the year. These plants can also be grown in greenhouses or on sheltered porches in containers, for people concerned about especially cold winters.