
Buttons Gardenia
Gardenia jasminoides 'Buttons'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
18 inches
Width
30 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
8, 9
Water
Medium
Humidity
High
Lifespan
10-15 years
Native To
Asia
Toxicity
Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses if ingested
The Story
Plant Bio
Gardenia jasminoides, commonly known as Cape Jasmine, is a beloved evergreen shrub famous for its intoxicatingly fragrant, waxy white flowers and lustrous, dark green leaves. 'Buttons' is a delightful dwarf cultivar, distinguished by its very compact, low-mounding habit and charming, small, double white flowers that resemble little buttons. It is an excellent choice for groundcover, edging, or containers.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Choose a spot with morning sun and protection from harsh afternoon sun.
- Prepare well-drained, acidic soil rich with organic matter.
- Dig a hole twice the width of the pot.
- Set the plant so its root ball top is level with the soil surface.
- Backfill with soil, water deeply to eliminate air pockets.
- Mulch around the base, keeping it away from the main stem.
Pro Tip
To maximize blooms on this compact plant, ensure it receives consistent moisture and regular feeding with an acidic fertilizer during the growing season.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Maintain consistently moist soil.
- Provide good air circulation.
- Fertilize regularly through spring and summer.
- Test soil pH and amend if necessary to keep it acidic.
Don't
- Don't allow the soil to become waterlogged.
- Avoid planting near concrete, which can leach lime and raise soil pH.
- Don't prune heavily or late in the season.
- Avoid splashing water on the leaves to prevent fungal spots.
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Buttons Gardenia questions
What zones can Buttons Gardenia grow in?
Buttons Gardenia is hardy in USDA Zones 8–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Buttons Gardenia deer resistant?
Yes — Buttons Gardenia is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Buttons Gardenia bloom?
Buttons Gardenia typically blooms in late spring through mid-summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Buttons Gardenia need full sun?
Buttons Gardenia does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
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