Species

Gardenia jasminoidesCommon Gardenia

17 other cultivars

shrub

Gardenia

Gardenia jasminoides 'Kimura'

The Story

Plant Bio

Gardenia jasminoides is an evergreen shrub native to subtropical regions of Asia, valued for its highly fragrant flowers and lustrous foliage. The species requires acidic, organically rich, and consistently moist but exceptionally well-drained soils to prevent root rot and nutrient deficiencies.

'Kimura' is a compact, low-growing cultivar that forms a dense, rounded shrub reaching two to three feet in height and width. It is distinguished by its extended, repeat-blooming habit, producing double white flowers from spring through fall.

Uses & Benefits:

Produces highly fragrant, double white flowers against lustrous, dark green evergreen foliage.

Serves as a compact, low-growing hedge or container specimen suitable for patios and entryways.

Attracts generalist pollinators, including bees and butterflies, with its nectar-rich blossoms.

SpeciesGardenia jasminoidesCommon Gardenia

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

36"

Width

36"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Medium

Humidity

High

Lifespan

15-20 years

Native To

Asia

Toxicity

Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses

Bloom period

Spring – Fall

In flower about 9 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a planting site with acidic soil (pH 5.0 to 6.0) that receives full sun to partial shade, preferably with afternoon shade in hot climates.
Amend the planting area deeply with organic matter to ensure a rich, humus-heavy, and exceptionally well-drained root zone.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper, setting the plant slightly above the surrounding soil grade to prevent waterlogging.
Apply a thick layer of organic mulch around the base to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature, keeping it clear of the main stem.

Pro Tip

Plant away from concrete foundations where lime leaching raises soil pH, and avoid cultivating the soil around the base to protect the highly sensitive, shallow root system.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Maintain consistent, even soil moisture without allowing the roots to sit in standing water.
Apply an acid-forming organic fertilizer in early spring and early summer.
Provide high humidity or shelter from dry, sweeping winds to prevent bud drop.

Don't

Do not cultivate or dig around the root zone, as the shallow roots are easily damaged.
Do not fertilize in late summer or fall, which stimulates tender growth vulnerable to frost.
Do not prune hard into old, leafless wood, as it fails to regenerate reliably.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Pest Check
Prune
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Container PlantingFoundation PlantingLow HedgeSpecimen PlantCourtyard Garden

Companion Plants

Rhododendron Camellia Pieris japonica Heuchera

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Gardenia questions

What zones can Gardenia grow in?

Gardenia is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Gardenia deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Gardenia, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Gardenia bloom?

Gardenia typically blooms in spring through fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Gardenia need full sun?

Gardenia does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.