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. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Gardenia does best with regular, moderate watering. Feed as new growth begins, following the rate on a balanced garden fertiliser. Keep a newly planted specimen evenly watered through its first season; established plants can then follow the water needs above.
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. For most gardens, maintenance 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
Gardenia sits most comfortably beside plants adapted to regular, moderate watering and subtropical climate. A small cluster gives stronger visual impact than isolated plants scattered through the garden.
