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. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool. For a screen, space plants about 60 cm apart.
Watering & feeding
Florida Gardenia is regular, moderate watering. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
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. Overall it 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
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Florida Gardenia with other plants that enjoy the same regular, moderate watering and subtropical climate. Group three or five together for impact rather than dotting single plants through the garden.
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. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it lands.