This iconic southern plant produces fragrant white flowers in late spring and sometimes during the summer months. Highly prized for the sweet scent of its blooms, this evergreen shrub can serve as a specimen plant, hedge, border plant, or a container plant. In addition to the beautiful flowers, the plant has glossy green leaves beautifully complement the flowers and make a great addition to cut flower arrangments. Gardenias should be gently pruned in the late summer after they finish blooming.
Plant gardenias in fertile soil that is on the acidic side. They like well-drained soil conditions and do best when planted in direct sun for most of the day. Gardenias can tolerate partial sun for a portion of the day, but too much shade will cause the plant to flower less. Fertilize these plants with a fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants.
Note: These plants are grown for decorative purposes and are not intended for human or animal consumption
FAST FACTS
Outstanding Features: Fragrant, creamy white flowers
Common Name
Gardenia, Cape Jasmine
Bloom Colors
Creamy white
Water
Water daily until established, then water as needed.
Zone
9 and above
Fertilizer
Use a fertilizer for acid loving plants starting in the spring
Scientific Name
Gardenia jasminoides
Light
Part Sun (3-6 hours morning sun)
Size
3 to 7 feet tall and about as wide
Overwintering
In zones 8 and lower, use as a container plant or as an annual in the landscape
Companion Plants
Ginger, ornamental peanut, clusia