Orange jasmine has a rich fragrance and is ideal for courtyard hedges and bonsai care

Orange jasmine (Murraya paniculata) is an evergreen shrub or small tree of the genus Murraya in the family Rutaceae, also known by other names such as Qilixiang, Qianlixiang and Wanlixiang, so named because its fragrance is clear and fresh and carries very far. Its branches and leaves are evergreen and glossy, with small, smooth pinnately compound leaves, and its small white flowers cluster together, dotted among the green leaves, elegant yet eye-catching.

The flowering period of orange jasmine is mostly concentrated in summer. When in full bloom, its fragrance fills the air, and after flowering it produces tiny fruits that turn orange-red when ripe, which are likewise ornamental. In the warm regions of the south, it is often planted as a courtyard hedge or as a single specimen for viewing; in the north it is mostly grown as a potted plant, and since its branches tolerate pruning and wiring, it is also a common bonsai species.

In caring for orange jasmine, the key is to provide plenty of light and a warm environment. It likes sunlight and also tolerates slight shade, but long-term lack of light will cause leggy growth and fewer flowers; the plant is not tolerant of severe cold, so in winter it should be moved to a warm place and watering reduced. A loose, fertile, well-drained soil is best. Normally water so that the soil dries out between waterings, and avoid water accumulating in the pot, which can cause root rot and yellow leaves.

During the growing season, apply light fertilizer frequently, and appropriately supplement with phosphorus and potassium fertilizer before flowering, which helps produce more flowers and a stronger fragrance. It has strong sprouting ability and tolerates pruning; routinely cutting off leggy branches and overly dense branches can both control the plant's shape and improve ventilation and light penetration. For bonsai shaping, wiring combined with pruning is mostly used to gradually develop a vigorous, natural tree form.

Propagation is commonly done by cuttings and sowing, with a relatively high survival rate when carried out in spring and autumn. During care, if ventilation is poor, it is prone to pests such as scale insects and red spider mites, which need to be cleaned up promptly and controlled by spraying; yellowing and dropping of leaves are mostly related to waterlogging, lack of light or cold damage, and can be addressed by identifying the cause and making timely adjustments.