A compact rounded gardenia carrying intensely perfumed, waxy double white flowers above glossy emerald foliage from spring into summer. One of the most popular fragrant shrubs for warm gardens and pots.
At a glance
- Plant type: Shrub
- Mature size: 1.2 m H × 1 m W
- Aspect: part shade or morning sun and full sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: moderate maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Florida Gardenia
Gardenia augusta 'Florida' is a moderate-growing shrub in the Rubiaceae family. It reaches around 1.2 m tall and 1 m wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. White flowers appear for much of the year.
Where to grow Florida Gardenia
Florida Gardenia suits subtropical, warm-temperate and tropical climates and grows best in part shade or morning sun and full sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot.
Soil & planting
Florida Gardenia does best in acidic and free-draining soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in. For a screen, space plants about 60 cm apart.
Watering & feeding
Florida Gardenia does best with regular, moderate watering. Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring to support healthy growth. Keep a newly planted specimen evenly watered through its first season; established plants can then follow the water needs above.
Pruning & care
Prune Florida Gardenia after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. It clips well, so trim two or three times a year for a formal finish. Its ongoing care level is moderate maintenance.
Using Florida Gardenia in the garden
Florida Gardenia earns its place for its fragrance, pots and courtyard containers, a feature or specimen planting, a fast screen or informal hedge and cut flowers for the vase. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
Build the planting around neighbours suited to the same regular, moderate watering and subtropical climate as Florida Gardenia. Repeating the foliage or flower colour nearby will make the composition feel deliberate.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
Buying Florida Gardenia
Plant Sale lists Florida Gardenia as tube stock, potted plants and advanced specimens. Use the interest form above to check current sizes, pricing and availability before ordering.
