Also known as Mexican Orange · 22 saves
Choisya
Choisya, the genus most gardeners know as mexican orange. We track 3 varieties; the ones most used by real gardeners.
The 3 most-saved Choisya varieties
Track your Choisya in Sow
Save the Choisya you grow and get care reminders timed to your zone.
How to grow Choisya
Whats common across all Choisya varieties in our catalog — drawn from the care records of the 3 most-grown of them.
The Choisya year
- MulchMarch100% of varieties
Refresh mulch layer to retain moisture and regulate soil temp
- PruneMay and June100% of varieties
Lightly shape and prune immediately after the main spring bloom
- FertilizeMarch100% of varieties
Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer as new growth begins
- PlantMarch and September67% of varieties
Plant in spring or early fall for best establishment
- Spring CleanupFebruary67% of varieties
Remove any winter-damaged or dead foliage
Do
- Prune after flowering to shape the shrub
- Mulch to retain soil moisture
- Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
- Water regularly during dry periods 🌱
- Feed with balanced fertilizer in spring
Avoid
- Avoid overwatering in winter ❌
- Don’t prune in late fall
- Avoid heavy fertilization late in the season
- Overwater to prevent root rot ❌
What goes wrong with Choisya
| Problem | What you'll see | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Scale insects | Bumps on stems and leaves | Apply horticultural oil during dormant season |
| Aphids | Sticky residue and distorted leaves | Use insecticidal soap or neem oil |
| Root rot | Wilting and yellowing leaves | Improve drainage and reduce watering |
Making more Choisya
Cuttings
- Take semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer.
- Dip cuttings in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist, well-drained soil.
- Keep humid and warm for 6 weeks.
Dividing
- Dig up mature shrub in early spring.
- Separate into smaller clumps with roots intact.
- Replant immediately into prepared soil.
Choisya questions
How many types of Choisya are there?
The Sow catalog tracks 3 distinct Choisya varieties. The most popular — ranked by 22 real gardeners — are shown first above.
What zones does Choisya grow in?
Across its varieties, Choisya covers USDA Zones 7–10. Individual varieties differ — each plant page lists its exact range, and Sow filters the catalog to your zone automatically.
When does Choisya bloom?
Most Choisya varieties bloom in late spring. Staggering early, mid, and late varieties extends the genus's season in one bed.
Which Choisya should I choose?
Start from the most-saved varieties above — popularity across thousands of gardens is a strong signal of reliability — then filter by your zone and sun. In the Sow app you can preview any of them in a photo of your actual yard before you buy.