Gardenia Jasminoides
Facts about the Gardenia Jasminoides
Few people have never heard about flowers called gardenias, but the variety called gardenia jasminoides may be lesser known by its name than by its lovely appearance and intoxicating scent.
Gardenia jasminoides is the scientific name of a plant actually called Gardenia augusta; one of the most common varieties of the lovely flower. Many people also refer to this plant as the Cape jasmine because of the striking similarities in its scent.
One of the larger shrubs in the family, gardenia jasminoides can achieve heights up to 8 feet tall. It grows in a well rounded mound; the width of which can match the height in some cases. This gardenia is often used as a privacy fence or screen due to its dense foliage as it climbs a support such as a trellis or fence. For a successful planting outdoors, the gardenia jasminoides must be planted in Zones 9 or 10, which have the tropical climate they require. Warm and humid conditions are the ideal environment that this plant enjoys.
The gardenia jasminoides is classified as an evergreen plant, holding on to its leaves throughout the year. When leaf dropping is observed, it generally signifies that the plant is receiving too little or too much water, or possibly requires more nutrients through fertilizing. The foliage of this plant is beautiful; dark green, glossy leaves that measure around 4” in length and 2” in width.
It is the flowers of the gardenia jasminoides that attracts most people. Either single blooms or double, the flowers can resemble stars or roses in shape. Waxy in texture, these lovely blossoms are snowy white and as fragrant as any perfume. Providing a showy display from spring through fall, these flowers are elegant cut flowers for vases, bouquets or boutonnières. Left on the stem, their strong scent will fill the warm air.
Caring for the plant is easy enough for a beginner to do. The gardenia jasminoides requires regular watering; adding up to about an inch of water per week. While it enjoys humidity, the leaves should not be allowed to be wet for any period of time. Fertilizing the bush once per month will keep the gardenia healthy and blooming. Deadheading of any spent blossoms will encourage new flowers to emerge; extending the blossoming time. One each year, in early spring, prune the gardenia to retain it rounded shape.
Planting the gardenia jasminoides, if you are in a tropical climate, will provide a showy garden display of lush foliage adorned with the most fragrant flowers you have ever experienced. Especially when grown near a porch, patio or deck, where you can sit at the end of a long day, these gardenias will reward your care with relaxing and intoxicating perfume.