Mock orange, Orange jasmine, Orange jessamine, China box, Cosmetic barktree, Satinwood
Murraya paniculata
The Story
Plant Bio
Murraya paniculata is a dense, evergreen large shrub or small multi-stemmed tree native to northern tropical Australia and parts of Asia, where it naturally inhabits drier lowland rainforests and monsoon thickets. It features glossy, dark green compound leaves that emit a distinct citrus odour when crushed, and produces terminal clusters of heavily sweet-scented white flowers.
While the wild species grows upright to four metres, garden forms are highly valued for their exceptional response to heavy clipping and formal hedging. The species serves as an important food source for native bees and fruit-eating birds, though pollen can trigger allergic rhinitis in sensitive individuals.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
157 inches
Width
118 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
9, 10
Water
Moderate
Humidity
High
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Northern tropical Australia, South Asia, Southeast Asia, Malesia, Pacific
Toxicity
Pollen can trigger allergic rhinitis; bugs on plant eject caustic fluid
Planting
How to Grow
- Plant in a full sun to partly shaded position with highly drained soil, avoiding any low-lying areas prone to waterlogging.
- Water regularly during the establishment phase, maintaining moderate moisture without allowing the roots to sit in soggy soil.
- Apply a controlled-release balanced fertiliser once annually at the beginning of spring to support seasonal growth flushes.
- Prune or clip the foliage two to three times per year during the warmer months to maintain a dense, formal shape.
Pro Tip
Avoid hard-clipping or heavy pruning during the depths of winter; instead, shape the hedge two to three times during active growth, taking care not to cut back into old, leafless wood where adventitious budding is poor.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Prune regularly to maintain density and shape when grown as a formal hedge.
- Ensure excellent soil drainage to prevent root decline from waterlogging.
- Monitor plants closely for scale insects and bronze orange bugs in spring.
Don't
- Do not prune heavily or hard-clip during the coldest periods of winter.
- Do not cut back into old, leafless wood where adventitious budding is poor.
- Do not use high-nitrogen spring fertilisers which can promote soft growth susceptible to citrus gall wasp.
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Spray |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Mock orange, Orange jasmine, Orange jessamine, China box, Cosmetic barktree, Satinwood questions
What zones can Mock orange, Orange jasmine, Orange jessamine, China box, Cosmetic barktree, Satinwood grow in?
Mock orange, Orange jasmine, Orange jessamine, China box, Cosmetic barktree, Satinwood is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
When does Mock orange, Orange jasmine, Orange jessamine, China box, Cosmetic barktree, Satinwood bloom?
Mock orange, Orange jasmine, Orange jessamine, China box, Cosmetic barktree, Satinwood typically blooms in late winter through summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Mock orange, Orange jasmine, Orange jessamine, China box, Cosmetic barktree, Satinwood need full sun?
Mock orange, Orange jasmine, Orange jessamine, China box, Cosmetic barktree, Satinwood does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Mock orange, Orange jasmine, Orange jessamine, China box, Cosmetic barktree, Satinwood drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Mock orange, Orange jasmine, Orange jessamine, China box, Cosmetic barktree, Satinwood handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
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