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Choisya ternata is a species of flowering plant in the family Rutaceae,[1] known as Mexican orange blossom or Mexican orange.
Choisya ternata is an evergreen shrub, growing up to 3 m (10 ft) in height. Its leaves have three leaflets (hence ternata) and are aromatic, releasing a smell reminiscent of basil when crushed.[2] The white flowers are scented, appearing in spring (sometimes with limited repeat flowering in autumn).[3]
Choisya ternata originates from Mexico. It is drought tolerant, preferring well drained soils.[3]
Choisya ternata is widely grown as an ornamental shrub in suitable climates. It tolerates temperatures down to −10 °C (14 °F) but is severely damaged by temperatures lower than −15 °C (5 °F). It responds well to pruning and shaping.[3]
In addition to the species, a number of cultivars are grown, including the golden-leaved C. ternata 'Lich' (usually sold under the name Sundance),[4] and the inter-specific hybrid C. 'Aztec Pearl' (C. dumosa var. arizonica × C. ternata).[5] The species and these two cultivars have gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.
Many quinoline alkaloids have been isolated from leaves of C. ternata.[6] C. ternata contains an alkaloid (ternanthranin), a volatile simple anthranilate, that was shown to have pain-killing effects in mice.[7]
Choisya ternata is a species of flowering plant in the family Rutaceae, known as Mexican orange blossom or Mexican orange.
