From the HedgeXpress blog · first published 2023

Choisya ‘Aztec Pearl’ and Choisya ‘White Dazzler’

Choisya Aztec Pearl & White Dazler, Choisyas | HedgeXpress

Choisya ‘Aztec Pearl’ and Choisya ‘White Dazzler’ are two popular cultivars of Choisya ternata, commonly known as Mexican orange or mock orange. While they belong to the same species, there are some differences between them in terms of appearance and characteristics.

1. Appearance:

• • Choisya ‘Aztec Pearl’: It has glossy, dark green foliage with a compact growth habit. The leaves are narrower than those of the traditional Choisya ternata.
  • Choisya ‘White Dazzler’: This variety also has glossy green leaves, but they are broader and slightly larger compared to ‘Aztec Pearl.’ The overall plant size is slightly smaller than the traditional Choisya ternata.

2. Flower:

1. • Choisya ‘Aztec Pearl’: It produces clusters of fragrant white flowers with a hint of pink in spring. The flowers have a sweet citrus-like fragrance.
   • Choisya ‘White Dazzler’: As the name suggests, it produces pure white flowers in abundance during the blooming season. The flowers are also highly fragrant. ‘White Dazzler’ also has a longer flowering period.

3. Growth Habit:

1. • Choisya ‘Aztec Pearl’: It has a moderate growth rate and tends to be slightly larger in size compared to ‘White Dazzler.’ It can reach a height and spread of around 6 to 8 feet (1.8 to 2.4 meters).
   • Choisya ‘White Dazzler’: This cultivar has a compact growth habit and generally stays smaller, reaching a height and spread of around 4 to 5 feet (1.2 to 1.5 meters).

4. Hardness:

Negligible differences in hardiness

5. Compactness

• • Choisya ‘White Dazzler’ is more compact than its Choisya ‘Aztec Pearl’ counterpart

Both cultivars are prized for their evergreen, fragrant foliage; scented flowers, and tolerance to various soil conditions. They are commonly used as ornamental shrubs in gardens, borders, and containers. The choice between ‘Aztec Pearl’ and ‘White Dazzler’ often comes down to personal preference regarding flower colour and plant size.

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