Species Thunberg's gardenia
Gardenia thunbergia; white colored, daisy-like flowers with pale-white stamens, woody-gray stems, and shiny, green leaves

Thunberg's gardenia

Gardenia thunbergia

Thunberg's gardenia (Gardenia thunbergia) is an amazing plant that is well worth including in any garden. It is native to South Africa and is both hardy and drought resistant. The gardenia is an evergreen shrub with glossy green leaves and is adorned with spectacular white blooms that provide a mesmerising fragrance in the warm summer months. Its petals are dense and fleshy with a golden centre and the beauty of its blooms is well known across the cape. The gardenia is also attractive to bees and birds, making it an ideal addition to any garden. Its stunning white flowers will bring warmth and colour to any space and will add a small piece of South Africa to any home.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Stem Propagation,Air Layering Propagation,Grafting Propagation,Division

Hardiness Zone:

10 - 12

Flowers:

Creamy white Flowers

Sun:

Part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

High

watering

Thunberg's gardenia should be kept lightly moist but not soggy. During the growing season, water the plant every 5 to 7 days when the top 1-2 inches of soil has dried out. In the winter months, water less frequently (about every 10 to 14 days) when the soil is completely dry. It is best to use a watering can so you can see if water makes it to the bottom of the pot. Avoid wetting the foliage of the plant, as this can cause leaf spotting.

sunlight

Thunberg's Gardenia requires full sun to partial shade to grow and thrive. When grown in full sun environments, it should get at least 6 hours of direct sun per day for optimal growth and blooming. In areas with higher temperatures, especially during summer months, partial shade may be necessary to help protect the plant from the intense heat. In addition, supplemental lighting indoors can be used in the early morning or late afternoon to provide extra light.

pruning

Thunberg's gardenia is a low-maintenance and easy to care for plant. Pruning will help keep your plant healthy and promote flowering. Prune Thunberg’s gardenia in early spring when new growth emerges, after flowering has ceased. Start by removing any dead or damaged branches. Then cut back any overly long or unruly stems; the goal is to open up the centers of the plants so they have more air circulation and sunlight. Lastly, shape the remaining stems and branches for a more pleasing look. When pruning, be sure to use sharp, sanitized pruners to ensure a clean and precise cut.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Thunberg's gardenia typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

Thunberg's gardenia typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Hardiness Map