Murraya paniculata

Description: Murraya paniculata, commonly known as Orange Jasmine, is a versatile evergreen shrub or small tree prized for its glossy foliage, fragrant flowers, and attractive form. It is widely cultivated for its ornamental value and ability to thrive in a variety of conditions.

Flowers:

• Blooms: Produces clusters of small, white, star-shaped flowers throughout the year, with peak blooming periods in spring and summer. The flowers are highly fragrant, resembling the scent of orange blossoms.
• Fragrance: The flowers emit a strong, sweet fragrance that is most noticeable in the evening, attracting pollinators and enhancing the garden atmosphere.

Fruit:

• Fruit: Small, oval, red to orange berries follow the flowers. The fruit adds additional ornamental interest and attracts birds.

Foliage:

• Leaves: Glossy, dark green, pinnate leaves with 3-7 leaflets provide an attractive and dense canopy. The foliage remains on the plant year-round.

Form and Size:

• Size: Typically grows 3-4 meters tall and 2-3 meters wide, forming a dense, rounded habit. With proper pruning, it can be maintained as a hedge or small tree.
• Habit: Upright and bushy, with a naturally rounded shape that can be easily shaped through pruning.

Growing Conditions:

• Climate: Thrives in tropical to subtropical climates, making it suitable for various regions in Australia. It prefers warm, humid conditions but can tolerate light frost.
• Soil: Prefers well-draining, fertile soil but can adapt to a variety of soil types, including sandy and loamy soils. Mulching helps retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
• Sunlight: Best grown in full sun to partial shade. Full sun encourages the best growth and flowering.
• Watering: Regular watering during the establishment phase is crucial. Once established, it has moderate drought tolerance but benefits from consistent moisture during dry periods.

Uses:

• Hedges and Screens: Ideal for creating dense, fragrant hedges and screens due to its compact growth habit and dense foliage.
• Specimen Plant: Can be used as a standalone specimen plant in gardens and courtyards, where its fragrant flowers and glossy foliage can be showcased.
• Containers: Suitable for growing in large containers or pots on patios and balconies, provided they have sufficient space for root growth.

Maintenance:

• Pruning: Prune after flowering to maintain shape and remove any dead or damaged branches. Regular pruning helps promote bushier growth and more abundant flowering.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring and again in mid-summer to promote healthy growth and flowering.
• Pests and Diseases: Generally resistant to pests and diseases. Monitor for scale insects, aphids, and whiteflies, especially in humid conditions.

Notes:

• Hardiness: Hardy in USDA zones 9-11. In cooler regions of Australia, provide protection from severe frost to prevent damage to young shoots.

Companion Plants: Underplant with low-growing ground covers or perennials that complement its dense canopy, such as liriope or ornamental grasses

Murraya paniculata (Orange Jasmine)

Common Name: Orange Jasmine, Mock Orange, Satinwood

Botanical Name: Murraya paniculata

Family: Rutaceae

Origin: Native to South and Southeast Asia

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