Gardenia augusta -

This popular shrub forms a well-branched dense upright rounded habit. The leaves are glossy green, yellowing in cooler weather and the fragrant flowers are white occurring in doubles, semi doubles. Excellent specimen for a fragrant garden.

Height 1-2m (3-7ft)
Spread 2m (7ft)
Soil Well drained fertile moist light clay loams, rich & organic, pH 6.
Containers Ideal for pots, tubs & troughs.
Aspect Full sun to part shade. Prefers the morning sun & procection from too much wind.
Climate Warm to sub-tropical
Flowers & Fruit The ribbed berry is not normally seen and the plant is normally reproduced vegetatively.



Cultivars
'Florida'
It forms a dense twiggy bun habit and is. 1x1.5m. The flowers are fully double, white turning yellow brown with age, 70mm dia. The leaves are 100mm X 35mm, dark glossy green with prominent venation.
'Grandiflora' (Syn. G. a 'Magnifica')
This is the larger of the cultivars 2m X 2.5m forming a dense rounded shrub. The leaves are larger 120mm X 40mm and the flowers are less prolific, large with a semi-double rose appearance. Strongly scented flowers are 120mm dia.
'Grandiflora Star'
This compact cultivar was produced in Japan and has flattish rotate flowers that are white turning cream blooming during spring. It prefers a semi shade moist position and is frost hardy.
'Radicans' (Rock Gardenia)
This shrub has a prostrate habit with horizontal branching, 0.5m tall and to 2m wide. The branches may form roots where they touch the soil. The flowers are semi-double and the petals are rolled or twisted to 50mm dia. The leaves are a narrow elliptical 40mm X 10 mm. This cultivar is used in rock gardens and as a ground cover.