Orange Jasmine

Murraya paniculata, commonly known as Orange Jasmine or Chinese Box, is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to the subtropical and tropical regions of South Asia, Southeast Asia, and Australia. It typically grows to a height of 2-7 meters (7-23 feet) and is often cultivated as a shrub. This plant thrives in a variety of habitats including monsoon forests, coastal forests, and forest edges. It features glossy, dark green leaves and small, creamy-white flowers that are highly fragrant and bloom in clusters throughout the year, with peak flowering from spring to summer. The flowers are particularly showy due to their abundance and sweet scent, which can perfume the surrounding area. The resulting fruit is a small, orange to red berry that is attractive to birds.

Orange Jasmine is valued for its aromatic flowers, dense foliage, and versatility in the landscape. It is commonly used as a hedge, screen, or container plant, and can also be trained as a bonsai. It adapts well to urban conditions and is relatively low-maintenance, tolerating pruning and shaping. In cultivation, it prefers full sun to part shade, well-drained soils, and regular watering, although it is drought-tolerant once established. It is not particular about soil pH and can grow in a range of soil types. However, gardeners should be aware that Murraya paniculata can become invasive outside its native range, as seen in Florida and other parts of the world. It has been found to become invasive on many Pacific islands; the ‘Exotica’ form is among the most invasive in SE Queensland.