Mexican Orange: A Native Southwestern Shrub Worth Considering
If you’re looking to add a touch of citrusy fragrance and evergreen beauty to your southwestern garden, the Mexican orange (Choisya dumosa var. mollis) might just be the native gem you’ve been searching for. This lesser-known member of the rue family brings both charm and ecological benefits to the right landscape setting.
What Exactly Is Mexican Orange?
Mexican orange, scientifically known as Choisya dumosa var. mollis, is a native perennial shrub that calls the American Southwest home. You might also see it listed under its synonym, Choisya mollis Standl., in older botanical references. This multi-stemmed woody plant typically stays under 13-16 feet in height, making it a manageable choice for most garden spaces.
Where Does It Naturally Grow?
This native beauty is naturally found in Arizona, where it has adapted to the unique conditions of the southwestern United States. As a true native plant, it’s perfectly evolved to thrive in this specific region’s climate and soil conditions.
Why Consider Growing Mexican Orange?
There are several compelling reasons why this native shrub deserves a spot in your landscape:
- Native plant benefits: As a true native, it supports local ecosystems and requires less water and maintenance once established
- Manageable size: Its shrub form makes it versatile for various landscape applications
- Perennial nature: You’ll enjoy this plant year after year without replanting
- Regional adaptation: Perfectly suited to Arizona’s unique growing conditions
Potential Challenges to Consider
Before you rush to the nursery, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Limited availability: This native variety can be harder to find than its more popular cousin, Choisya ternata
- Specific growing requirements: Being adapted to Arizona conditions means it may not thrive in other regions
- Less horticultural information: Compared to common garden shrubs, there’s limited cultivation guidance available
Growing Conditions and Care
While specific cultivation information for this variety is limited, we can make educated guesses based on its native habitat and family characteristics. Mexican orange likely prefers:
- Well-draining soil (essential for most southwestern natives)
- Full sun to partial shade
- Minimal water once established
- Protection from extreme cold if grown outside its native range
Is Mexican Orange Right for Your Garden?
This native shrub is best suited for gardeners in Arizona or similar southwestern climates who are committed to growing native plants. It’s an excellent choice if you’re creating a native plant garden, working on xeriscaping, or simply want to support local wildlife with indigenous plantings.
However, if you’re outside the southwestern United States or looking for a well-documented, easy-to-grow shrub with plenty of cultivation information available, you might want to consider other options or consult with local native plant societies for guidance.
The Bottom Line
Choisya dumosa var. mollis represents the kind of hidden gem that makes native plant gardening so rewarding. While it may not be the easiest plant to source or grow, for the right gardener in the right location, it offers the satisfaction of growing a true regional native that supports local ecosystems. If you can find it and you’re gardening in its native range, this Mexican orange variety is definitely worth trying – just be prepared for a bit of gardening adventure along the way!
