Sundance
Aujourd'hui, il pleut. A lot. It was wet and miserable outside this morning. I had planned to get a bit of gardening done, but failing that, at least we headed to the garden centre in Alkham Valley to pick up a few small plants to fill in the gaps in our raised beds. Plenty of lush foliage was on display, sprinkled with raindrops, so I grabbed some photographs as we browsed.
Choisya ternata Sundance, also known as Golden Mexican Orange Blossom – this sun-loving shrub is a delightful addition to any garden, boasting a combination of attractive foliage, fragrant flowers, and easy care.
Sundance's most striking feature is its glossy, bright yellow foliage. Unlike the green leaves of the typical Choisya ternata, Sundance's golden hue adds a burst of colour that brightens up the garden, particularly in winter when other plants are dormant. This foliage isn't just for show – it's also aromatic, releasing a citrusy scent when brushed against.
Come springtime, Sundance bursts into bloom with clusters of delicate white, star-shaped flowers. These fragrant blossoms add a touch of elegance and attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, creating a buzz of activity in your garden. The good news is that you might even get a repeat performance – with proper care, Sundance can produce a second flush of flowers in late summer or autumn.
Taking care of Sundance is a breeze. Plant it in a sunny, sheltered spot with well-drained soil. It thrives in hot and dry conditions, making it a low-maintenance option for busy gardeners. Established plants benefit from a light prune after the spring flowering to encourage bushier growth and potentially even a second bloom. Keep an eye out for common garden pests like snails and red spider mites, but other than that, Sundance is a relatively trouble-free shrub.
With its cheerful foliage, fragrant flowers, and ability to attract pollinators, Choisya ternata Sundance is a versatile shrub that can be enjoyed in various garden settings. Use it as a colourful border plant, create a low hedge, or add a touch of sunshine to your patio containers. Sundance will bring life and beauty to your garden throughout the year.
