As a gardening and landscaping expert, I can confidently say that the Mexican orange, also known as Mexican Orange Blossom or Choisya ternata, is indeed deer resistant. This plant belongs to the rue family and is closely related to lemon and other citrus plants.
One of the most notable features of the Mexican orange is its evergreen leaves, which emit a strong and pungent aroma. While some people may find this scent unappealing, it serves as a natural deterrent for deer. These animals tend to avoid plants with strong fragrances, making the Mexican orange a great choice for gardens or landscapes where deer are a concern.
In addition to its aromatic leaves, the Mexican orange also produces buds and flowers in both spring and autumn. Interestingly, deer do not even nibble on these buds and flowers, further reinforcing its deer resistance. This is a valuable characteristic for gardeners who often struggle with deer damage to their plants.
Personal Experience:
I have personally witnessed the deer resistance of Mexican orange plants in my own garden. Living in an area with a high population of deer, I was constantly battling with these animals eating my plants. However, after adding Mexican orange to my garden, I noticed a significant decrease in deer damage. Not only did the deer avoid grazing on the leaves, but they also left the buds and flowers untouched.
It is important to note that while Mexican orange is deer resistant, it does not guarantee complete deer-proofing. In times of extreme hunger or scarcity of food, deer may still browse on the plant. However, compared to many other plants, the Mexican orange is far less appealing to deer and is generally left alone.
To summarize, the Mexican orange, or Mexican Orange Blossom, is a deer-resistant plant. Its pungently aromatic leaves and unappetizing buds and flowers make it an excellent choice for gardens or landscapes where deer are a concern. While not completely immune to deer browsing, the Mexican orange is a reliable option for gardeners looking to deter these animals and protect their plants.
