Orange Jasmine Plant Care Guide (Murraya paniculata)

Understanding the Plant

Orange Jasmine belongs to the citrus family Rutaceae, which explains its citrus-like scent. Mature plants can reach 2–3 m tall outdoors but remain manageable in pots with pruning. Its flowers develop into small red-orange berries that attract birds, adding ornamental and ecological value. This shrub performs equally well as a single feature plant or as a clipped formal hedge.

Ideal Light Conditions

Provide full sun to bright filtered light. Outdoor specimens thrive in morning or late-day sun with light midday shade in very hot zones. Insufficient light leads to sparse branching and fewer blooms. For indoor plants, position near a bright east- or north-facing window or under LED grow lights for 10–12 hours daily.

Soil Requirements & pH Range

Orange Jasmine favours a free-draining, fertile loam rich in organic matter. Ideal pH sits between 6.0 and 7.0. Heavy clay can be improved by blending 30 % coarse sand or perlite to increase drainage. In containers, use a premium potting mix with slow-release organic base or fine pine bark chips to improve airflow around roots.

Watering Routine & Moisture Control

The rule is: moist but never soggy. Water deeply once the top 2–3 cm of soil begins to dry. In hot months, this may mean two or three times per week; in cooler seasons, once weekly often suffices. Always ensure containers have adequate drainage holes. For hedges, install drip irrigation or a soaker hose to maintain consistent moisture and reduce fungal risks.

• Tip: Morning watering reduces evaporation and fungal risk.
• Rainwater: Slightly acidic and ideal for maintaining nutrient availability.
• Mulch: Apply a 3 cm layer of bark or sugarcane mulch to regulate moisture and temperature.

Temperature & Humidity

Optimal growth occurs between 18–30 °C. Below 10 °C, growth slows, and leaves may yellow. In cool regions, position against a warm north-facing wall or bring potted plants indoors before frost. Humidity between 50–70 % maintains glossy foliage; lightly mist in dry indoor air or group plants together.

Repotting & Root Health

Repot every 2–3 years in late spring when roots fill the pot. Trim 10 % of the root mass and replace the upper soil layer annually to refresh nutrients. Choose pots one size larger (2–3 cm wider) than the previous. Ensure fresh, aerated mix—dense soil suffocates feeder roots and reduces nutrient uptake.

Pruning and Shaping

Regular pruning promotes dense foliage and repeat blooming. Lightly trim right after major flower flushes—typically late spring and mid-summer. Cut above a leaf node to stimulate branching. Remove deadwood or rubbing stems to improve airflow. For formal hedges, clip every 6–8 weeks; for ornamental shrubs, a light shape twice per year is enough.

Propagation Methods

Orange Jasmine can be propagated by semi-hardwood cuttings (10–12 cm long) taken in summer or by seed from ripe orange berries. Dip cuttings in rooting hormone, plant in a 50 : 50 mix of perlite and peat, and maintain humidity until rooted (usually 6–8 weeks). Grafted forms are common in commercial nurseries for faster establishment.