Orange jasmine tree — ดอกแก้ว (dok kaew) — Murraya paniculata
Murraya paniculata, commonly known as orange jasmine or orange jessamine, is a tropical evergreen plant that belongs to the family Rutaceae. The plant is native to Southeast Asia and is popular for its fragrant flowers and glossy foliage.
Here are some key features of Murraya paniculata:
- Fragrant Flowers One of the main attractions of Murraya paniculata is its small, white, and highly fragrant flowers. These flowers typically bloom in clusters and emit a sweet, citrus-like scent, giving the plant its common name of “orange jasmine.” The tree blossoms several times a year and spreads its fragrance over more than 20 meters
2. Foliage The plant has dark green, glossy leaves that are pinnate in arrangement. The foliage is dense and provides an attractive backdrop to the flowers.
3. Size Orange jasmine is a medium to large-sized shrub or small tree. It can reach heights of up to 6 meters (20 feet) under optimal growing conditions.
4. Habitat Murraya paniculata thrives in tropical and subtropical climates. It prefers well-drained soil and is commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes.
5. Cultural Significance In addition to its ornamental value, the plant holds cultural significance in some regions. In Thai culture, it is known as “ดอกแก้ว” (dok kaew).
6. Uses The plant is often used as a hedge, screen, or specimen plant in gardens and parks. The fragrant flowers make it a popular choice for landscaping, and the plant is also cultivated for its essential oils.
7. Hardiness Murraya paniculata is sensitive to frost and prefers warm climates. In cooler regions, it is often grown as a container plant that can be moved indoors during colder months.
8. Care Proper care includes regular watering, well-draining soil, and occasional pruning to maintain its shape and size. It can tolerate partial shade but generally prefers full sun.
It’s worth noting that while the plant is prized for its beauty and fragrance, some people may be sensitive to the milky sap it produces, so caution is advised when handling it. Additionally, Murraya paniculata is different from the true jasmine plants (genus Jasminum), despite sharing a common name.
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