Gardenia
Gardenia jasminoides
Traits
Varieties We Bring In
Last received Aug 6, 2026.
We bring this in seasonally, so what is on the lot changes week to week. A received date shows when it last came in, not that it is here today.
Call (904) 471-0440 to confirm this plant and size before you make the trip.
About Gardenia
Gardenia (Gardenia jasminoides) is a beloved evergreen shrub from China and Japan renowned for its intensely fragrant, waxy white flowers and lustrous dark green foliage. Available in single and double-flowered forms, it is a classic specimen and container plant in warm-climate gardens. Starting at $14.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Spring, Summer
- Flower Color
- White
- Growth Rate
- Moderate
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Soil
- Loam, Acidic, Well-drained
Best planting months
Seasonal care
Bloom season. Good planting window.
Bloom season.
Ideal planting window.
Retains foliage through winter.
Care essentials
Plant in full sun to partial shade with good air circulation to reduce pest and disease pressure. In NE Florida, afternoon shade reduces heat stress and extends bloom; avoid deep shade, which reduces flowering.
Water regularly to maintain consistent soil moisture; do not allow to dry out completely. Avoid overwatering or poor drainage, which can cause bud drop and root issues. Apply a 3-inch mulch layer to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Requires acidic soil (pH 5.0–6.5); amend with compost or peat moss at planting. In NE Florida, fertilize with an acid-forming fertilizer in March and September; a third application in summer is optional. Yellowing foliage signals high pH — adjust with sulfur or use a chelated iron supplement.
Similar needs
Boxwood
Shares 4 of the same needs: similar light, moderate water, loam, and zone 9a hardiness.
Cleyera
Shares 4 of the same needs: similar light, moderate water, loam, and zone 9a hardiness.
Elderberry
Shares 4 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, loam, and zone 9a hardiness.
Piedmont Azalea
Shares 4 of the same needs: similar light, moderate water, loam, and zone 9a hardiness.
Saltbush
Shares 4 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, loam, and zone 9a hardiness.
Sweet Olive
Shares 4 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, loam, and zone 9a hardiness.
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Common questions
Is Gardenia a good plant for St. Augustine?
Gardenia is a shrub for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 3-8 feet × 4-6 feet.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed February 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.