The Gardenia (Gardenia jasminoides), often called the Cape Jasmine, is renowned for its exquisitely fragrant, creamy white flowers and glossy, dark green foliage. This evergreen shrub adds elegance to gardens, patios, and indoor spaces. While Gardenias require specific care, their stunning blooms and captivating scent make them a rewarding addition to any garden.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Gardenia jasminoides
• Common Name: Gardenia, Cape Jasmine
• Plant Type: Evergreen shrub
• Height: 2-8 feet depending on variety
• Flowers: White, fragrant, blooms in spring and summer

Sunlight Requirements

• Bright, Indirect Light:
  • Thrives in bright, indirect sunlight or partial shade.
  • In hot climates, provide afternoon shade to prevent scorching.
  • Indoor gardenias need bright light, preferably near a sunny window.

Soil Preferences

• Type:
  • Prefers rich, well-drained, acidic soil.
• pH:
  • Ideal soil pH is between 5.0 and 6.0.
• Enhancements:
  • Add organic matter like peat moss or compost to improve soil quality.

Watering Guidelines

1. Consistent Moisture:
   • Keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy.
   • Allow the top inch of soil to dry slightly before watering.
2. Water Quality:
   • Use distilled or rainwater if possible, as gardenias are sensitive to hard water with high lime content.

Fertilization

1. Acidic Fertilizer:
   • Feed with a fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants (like azaleas or camellias) every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.