Intensely perfumed white blooms against dark glossy leaves — the scent of a subtropical summer. Give it warmth, acidic soil and steady moisture and it flowers for months.
At a glance
- Plant type: Shrub
- Mature size: 1.5 m tall
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: moderate maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Gardenia
Gardenia jasminoides is a moderate-growing shrub in the Rubiaceae family. It reaches around 1.5 m tall at maturity, with evergreen foliage. White flowers appear for much of the year.
Where to grow Gardenia
Gardenia suits subtropical and warm-temperate climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot.
Soil & planting
Gardenia does best in acidic soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
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 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 Gardenia in the garden
Gardenia earns its place for its fragrance, a fast screen or informal hedge, pots and courtyard containers and a feature or specimen planting. 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 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.