In the Garden Now: Aztec Pearl Mexican Orange

Aztec Pearl Mexican Orange flower clusters

Story and photos by Victoria Gilleland

It's prime time for 'Aztec Pearl' Mexican Orange! This shrub is in full bloom right now. Buds start with a pinkish cast and open to pearly white flower clusters. This is not an orange plant variety. It gets its name from the scented leaves and flowers that are somewhat like that of orange blossoms.

Annual pruning will keep it small

Because of this citrus scent the shrub is seldom bothered by critters such as deer and rabbits. The shrub stays more compact when grown in full sun but grows and flowers well in part shade. 

Plants can reach 8' in height but may be kept much smaller with regular pruning right after flowering usually by the end of May in the Seattle area.

This is an easy to grow fragrant evergreen shrub that is definitely worth considering for your garden.

(Choisya dewitteana 'Aztec Pearl')