On a warm evening, a Murraya exotica in flower can perfume an entire courtyard. Native to southern and Southeast Asia, northern Australia and New Caledonia, this evergreen shrub belongs to the citrus family Rutaceae. It produces clusters of small, white, star-shaped flowers in flushes throughout the warmer months. The flowers stand out against dense, dark, glossy foliage, while their sweet fragrance resembles that of orange blossoms.

Orange Jasmine is one of the most versatile evergreens for shaping. Regular pruning keeps it dense and makes it ideal for formal hedges, privacy screens and topiary. You can also train it on a single stem to create an elegant small tree for courtyards, entrances and large containers. Gardeners can maintain it at around 2.5–3.5 m, although unpruned plants can reach 4 m or more in favourable conditions.

In Gauteng, Murraya exotica grows well in full sun or semi-shade. It prefers well-drained soil and a warm, sheltered position, as it struggles with severe frost. Water regularly while it establishes, then moderately thereafter. Plant it near walkways, entrances or outdoor seating areas to enjoy its fragrance. Prune after flowering to maintain its shape and encourage dense growth. This also limits berry production, as birds can disperse the seeds.

Good to know: Orange Jasmine is classified as a Category 1b invasive plant in KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo and Mpumalanga. Its cultivation and movement are therefore subject to restrictions under South African invasive species regulations. It can also host citrus psyllids, insects associated with the spread of citrus greening disease. If you grow citrus, monitor plants for unusual leaf curling, distortion and other signs of pest activity.