Orange Jessamine (Murraya paniculata): Fragrant Flowers and Glossy Foliage

Orange jessamine, or orange jasmine, is a versatile, evergreen shrub or small tree with intensely fragrant, white, citrus-scented flowers that bloom in flushes throughout the year. Its glossy, dark green, pinnate leaves and red berries add year-round interest. Native to Asia and Australia, Murraya paniculata is widely used as a hedge, screen, or specimen.

Growing Conditions

Full sun to partial shade, well-drained soil. Regular watering and feeding promote dense growth and flowering. It responds well to pruning, making it ideal for formal hedges and topiary. In zones 9-11, it's evergreen; cooler zones, grow in containers.

Uses and Varieties

The cultivar 'Lakeview' (see ID 66263) is more compact. The flowers are used in leis and perfumery. Berries attract birds. It's a host plant for citrus butterfly larvae.

Taxonomic Profile