
Gardenia
Uses:
- Flowering Hedges
- Garden Borders
- Sensory Gardens
Features:
- Fragrant Flowers
- Evergreen Foliage
- Attracts Pollinators
Sunlight:
- Partial Shade to Full Sun
- 4+ Hours of Direct Sun
Growing Zones:
- 6-11
- What is My Zone?
Gardenia shrubs are popular in southern states and typically grown for their fragrant flowers and evergreen foliage. These are perfect as a flowering evergreen hedge or garden border. Or grow these in planters in an entryway or on the patio to enjoy the fragrant blooms.
Why Buy Gardenia Shrubs Online
Gardenia are flowering evergreen shrubs in the coffee family Rubiaceae. These plants grow in warm tropical climates and are native to Africa, Asia, Madagascar and Pacific Islands. These can also be grown as small ornamental trees. The broad leaves are typically dark green and glossy, but with a leathery texture and feel. The flowers typically bloom from mid spring to mid summer and are very fragrant. The blooms are usually white with yellow tubular-based centers.
Gardenia are primarily grown in southern states. Great as flowering evergreen hedges or as garden borders. The strong scented flowers are why gardeners love these plants, even in planters for year round interest.
The Best Way To Use Gardenia
Most gardenia are winter hardy to growing zones 6 to 11. The plants can grow from 2 ft up to 6ft tall and wide. The growth habit is typically mounded. The plants prefer well conditioned soil and also well drained soil. Plant in a location that gets sun during the day and shade in the hot afternoon. The plants prefer very humid conditions and are perfect for southern states.
Use gardenia on your property as evergreen garden borders, flowering hedges, in garden containers. The fragrant flowers will draw attention anywhere you grow the plants.

Flowering evergreen shrubs

Very fragrant flowers

Usually white flowers with yellow centers

2 to 6 feet tall and wide

Growing zones 6 to 11
About Gardenia

Cape Jasmine, Cape Jessamine
Tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, and the Pacific Islands
Bushes
Broadleaf, glossy, dark green
8 to 11
Creamy white to pale yellow
Late spring to early summer
Dense, bushy, rounded
Pollinators like bees and butterflies
Partial shade
Deer and some pests (moderate resistance)
How To Use Gardenia In The Garden
Gardenia is cherished for its captivating fragrance and waxy white flowers, The evergreen foliage, glossy and dark green, creates a lush backdrop that enhances each new wave of blooms. Although finicky about temperature and soil acidity, its heady perfume and refined appearance more than justify the extra attention. Gardenias have a long history in Asian gardens and have become easier to grow through centuries of devoted cultivation and breeding efforts.
Place gardenias near entrances or walkways in partial shade, where their signature scent can be fully appreciated. They also adapt to containers, providing an elegant focal point in outdoor seating areas. Plant them in acidic, well-drained soil and protect them from harsh winter conditions to prevent dieback. Occasional pruning after flowering helps preserve shape and encourages fresh buds for the next season’s display.
Gardenia Care
Plant gardenias in well-draining, slightly acidic soil to support healthy growth. Position them in locations with morning sun and afternoon shade, especially in warmer regions, to provide optimal light conditions. Water newly planted gardenias frequently, reducing to once or twice a week as they establish. Apply a slow-release fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants in spring to promote blooming.
Prune gardenias after flowering to maintain shape and remove dead branches. In colder climates, protect them from freezing temperatures by mulching around the base and covering the plant during severe cold spells. When growing gardenias in containers, use well-draining, acidic potting mix and ensure adequate humidity, especially indoors during winter months.
Learn More About Gardenia
