Choisya Little Bee - Mexican Orange Blossom

Choisya 'Little Bee' is a dwarf variety of Mexican Orange, with a rounded habit, that does not exceed 50 to 60cm (19.7 to 23.6in) in all directions at maturity. Its foliage is glossy, evergreen, and aromatic, with particularly finely cut and narrow leaves, of a fairly dark green colour. It is covered in flowers and attracts pollinators twice a year: in April-May and then in September-October, as it is highly remontant. Its pink buds open to pure white flowers, delicately scented. Easy to grow in any well-drained soil, it is robust and drought-resistant, but this variety also tolerates wet conditions well.

Mexican Orange 'Little Bee' belongs to the Rutaceae family. It is a horticultural variety resulting from a cross between the variety 'Aztec Gold' and the Choisya dewitteana species. It was obtained by Alan Postill at Hillier Nurseries. 'Little Bee' reaches an average size of 50 to 60cm (19.7 to 23.6in) in all directions. Its rounded and very compact habit features opposite leaves divided into 3 to 7 very narrow leaflets, of a shiny dark green. When crushed, they release a fresh, citrusy, and spicy scent, reminiscent of both orange leaves and green peppers. The flowering occurs for the first time in April-May. Highly remontant, this variety blooms again in September-October. Clusters of slightly pinkish floral buds appear at the tips of the branches. They open into star-shaped flowers with 5 petals, 2 to 3cm (0.8 to 1.2in) in diameter. The delicately scented flowers are highly visited by pollinating insects.

Choisya 'Little Bee', ideal in Mediterranean climates, with some shade, withstands long dry periods in summer once established. It adapts well to more northerly latitudes having been bred in England. It thrives in any light, not too chalky, well-drained soil, in a warm, sunny position protected from cold winds. Indeed, when young and planted in non-optimal conditions, its hardiness can be lacking in the northernmost regions. Otherwise, it is around -15°C, once well-rooted and under proper growing conditions. After the first flowering, light pruning helps maintain a compact habit and promotes a floral rebloom in autumn, although it also occurs without pruning. The Mexican Orange 'Little Bee' can be planted in containers on a terrace or in a border near a pathway to enjoy its fragrance. It can also be integrated in the foreground of a mixed planting of shrubs and perennials, such as roses, Abelias, Astrantias. In a contemporary garden, it pairs well with Heucheras and low-growing grasses. It is an asset in a small exotic-inspired garden, with, for example, Daylilies, as its appearance and fragrance are truly exotic.