Orange Jessamine (Murraya paniculata)

Orange Jessamine

Murraya paniculata

Fragrant star-shaped blooms scent summer evenings like citrus honey. Evergreen flowering shrub; common names: Orange Jessamine, Mock Orange.

Full sun to partial shade; tolerates bright filtered indoor light for container growth
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; tolerates bright filtered indoor light for container growth
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Watering Water deeply when the top 2–3 cm of soil is dry; avoid standing water to prevent root rot
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Temperature Thrives in 18–30°C; protect from frost below 10°C to prevent leaf damage
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Glossy, dark green pinnate compound leaves with 3–7 oval leaflets
  • Flower: Clusters of small, white, star-shaped blooms with strong citrus-like fragrance
  • Stem: Slender, woody stems with smooth light brown bark
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid feed every 2 weeks. Avoid fertilizing during winter dormancy to prevent nutrient buildup

Banana peel compost tea:Compost banana peels for 2–3 weeks, steep in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20 for root drench to avoid nutrient burn
Pruning
  • Prune immediately after flowering to maintain compact shape and encourage new bloom growth
  • Remove dead, diseased, or overcrowded branches to improve airflow
  • Trim leggy stems in early spring to promote bushier growth
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA confirmed non-toxic; no harmful effects for cats

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse health effects from ingestion or contact

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: Symbolizes purity and joyful gatherings in some Southeast Asian traditional gardens

Usage: Ornamental hedge shrub; fragrant cut flower for indoor arrangements; container plant for patios