WSU Clark County Extension

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Sundance Mexican Orange

Scientific name: Choisya ternata 'Sundance'

Taxonomy
Family:Rutaceae
Type:Evergreen shrubs
Native:NO
Plant Requirements
Zone:8 to 10
Sun:Partial shade
Moisture:Dry
Plant Characteristics
Height:6 ft
Width:6 ft
Bloom:Showy flowers
Bloom Time:May to October
Bloom Color:White
Additional Characteristics
Trees


Fruit

Leaves


Bark
Wildlife value

Poisonous
Description Sundance Mexican Orange is a delight for the semi-shaded garden with its profusion of pleasing white fragrant flowers which emit a citrus smell. The golden-yellow new foliage contrasts nicely with the older green leaves.

  Morphology:
This evergreen shrub grows to 6’ in both height and width on partial shade sites. It features chartreuse yellow foliage which is shiny and glossy textured. Leaves are arranged oppositely in a palmate fashion with 3 leaflets. Leaflets are 1”-3” in length. When crushed, the leaves have a distinctive smell which reminds many gardeners of basil.

White flowers first emerge in May and continue all summer long.

  Adaptation:
This cultivar does best where it is shielded from the rays of the afternoon sun. The foliage will bleach out if it's given too much exposure. It prefers well-drained, fertile soil. Fertilize with well-rotted manure or compost at planting time and top-dress in spring.

  Pests:
None reported.
For assistance, contact Dr. Charles Brun (brunc@wsu.edu), (360) 397-6060 5701
Computing and Web Resources, PO Box 6234, Washington State University, Pullman WA 99164-6234