Murraya paniculata / Chalcas paniculata – Orange Jasmine, Mock Orange, Chinese Box, Satinwood, Kamini

Description

Murraya paniculata is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to South and Southeast Asia and widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions for its fragrant flowers and dense ornamental foliage. The plant typically grows 2 to 7 meters tall, forming a compact, bushy crown with glossy, dark green, pinnate leaves.

It produces abundant clusters of small, star-shaped white flowers that emit a strong, sweet fragrance reminiscent of orange blossoms. Flowering may occur several times throughout the year in warm climates. After flowering, small oval berries develop, turning bright orange to red when ripe.

This species thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained, moderately fertile soil. It tolerates pruning very well, making it popular for hedges, ornamental borders, and container cultivation. The plant also attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Sow the seeds in spring to early summer when temperatures are warm, ideally between 22°C to 30°C. Seeds germinate best when cleaned of pulp and planted in moist, well-drained substrate. In tropical climates, seeds can be sown at almost any time of year if warmth and humidity are maintained.