**Murraya paniculata: A Fragrant and Versatile Plant**
**Scientific Name:** *Murraya paniculata* (Jack)
**Common Names:** Thousand Lily, Wood Evergreen
**Family:** Rutaceae
**Description:**
*Murraya paniculata* is a shrub or small tree that typically grows to a height of 3–8 meters. It has smooth stems with slightly hairy twigs. The leaves are odd-pinnate, with 3–9 leaflets that are alternate and vary in shape—from ovate to obovate or lozenge-shaped. Each leaflet measures about 2–7 cm in length and 1–3 cm in width, with entire margins. The plant produces short cymes, either axillary or terminal, bearing flowers of varying sizes. The white, highly fragrant blossoms are 1.2–1.5 cm long and have a diameter of about 4 cm. They feature five persistent sepals and five petals, which contain transparent glands. The fleshy, red fruits are 8–12 mm long and contain 1–2 seeds. The flowering period occurs in autumn.
**Native Range:**
This species is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, including Yunnan, Guizhou, Hunan, Guangdong, Guangxi, Fujian, and Taiwan.
**Growing Conditions:**
*Murraya paniculata* thrives in warm climates and is not frost-tolerant. In northern regions, it should be kept indoors during winter, where the temperature should not drop below 5°C. It prefers humid environments and can tolerate partial shade, making it ideal for shaded terraces and courtyards. While it has some drought tolerance, it does not like waterlogged soil. The soil should be loose, fertile, and rich in humus, with good drainage and a neutral pH.
**Cultivation Tips:**
This plant is often found growing in sparse forests, where it benefits from a warm, humid climate. It can be propagated through seeds or cuttings. For optimal growth, it prefers temperatures between 20–32°C. During winter, if the temperature drops below 5°C, it should be moved to a cooler indoor space (5–10°C). However, moving it too early may reduce its cold resistance. If the room is too cold, leaves may fall, affecting new growth. Temperatures below 0°C can cause freezing damage. Conversely, if the indoor temperature is too high, the plant may not enter dormancy and could start growing prematurely, leading to weak development. When moving it outdoors, sudden cold winds can cause buds to retract, affecting the next season’s growth.
**Light Requirements:**
*Murraya paniculata* is a sun-loving plant but can also tolerate partial shade. It should be placed in a location that receives at least 5–6 hours of direct sunlight daily. During flowering, it can be placed near a window to enjoy more light. While it grows stronger in semi-shade, the fragrance of the flowers becomes lighter. If the shade is too heavy, the leaves may turn pale, and flowering may be reduced or absent. During winter, it should still be placed in a sunny spot.
**Winter Care:**
In colder northern regions, *Murraya paniculata* is often overwintered indoors. One common issue is the drying out of the lower leaves due to dry potting soil. Indoor air can be dry, poorly ventilated, and polluted with dust, which may lead to leaf loss. However, even if some leaves fall, as long as the branches remain green, the plant can be carefully brought back outdoors in spring and will likely regrow new leaves.
**Uses:**
The flowers, leaves, and fruits of *Murraya paniculata* contain essential oils with an oil yield of approximately 0.25%. These oils are used in cosmetics and food flavoring. The leaves can also be used as a seasoning spice. Medicinally, the leaves and herbs are used to promote circulation, relieve pain, and treat stomachaches, rheumatism, and other ailments. Externally, they can help with toothaches, swelling, and insect bites. It is also used in traditional medicine as a digestive aid and stomachic.
**Medicinal Significance:**
One famous example is *Sanjiu Weitai*, a well-known stomach medicine originally developed by the First Military Medical University. It received the People's Liberation Army Medical Scientific and Technological Achievement Award and is now produced by the Shenzhen Nanfang Pharmaceutical Factory. The formula includes *Murraya paniculata* and another medicinal plant called *Sanqiku*, which is why it is named *Sanjiu Weitai*.
**Wood Use:**
The wood of *Murraya paniculata* is hard and compact, making it suitable for crafting fine wooden items.
Whether grown as an ornamental, medicinal plant, or for its aromatic properties, *Murraya paniculata* is a versatile and valuable addition to gardens and homes.
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