The ‘Florida’ variety is arguably the most popular gardenia in Australia, prized for its robust performance and exceptional scent. It is an evergreen shrub with a naturally dense, rounded growth habit, typically reaching around $1m in height and width. Its signature feature is the brilliant, semi-double, creamy-white flowers that bloom from late spring through summer and autumn, filling the air with a strong, beautiful fragrance. This is perfectly complemented by the year-round display of lush, highly glossy, dark-green leaves. It performs brilliantly both in the ground and in containers.
Care (The Key to Happy Gardenias):
- Position: Prefers a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade (part shade) to protect the foliage from scorching. It needs a warm, sheltered location and appreciates humidity.
- Soil: It is an acid-loving plant and requires rich, free-draining soil with an acidic pH. If growing in a pot, use a specialised mix for Azaleas, Camellias, and Gardenias.
- Watering: Requires consistent, regular deep watering, especially during hot spells and the flowering period. They hate drying out, but also do not like waterlogged ‘wet feet’.
- Feeding: Gardenias are heavy feeders. Use a fertiliser specifically formulated for acid-loving plants (like a Camellia/Azalea fertiliser) in spring, summer, and autumn. Yellowing leaves (chlorosis) are the number one sign of a nutrient deficiency, usually due to the soil pH being too high. Applying a liquid feed or a soil acidifier can help.
- Pruning: Prune lightly to shape immediately after the main flush of flowers finishes (usually late summer/early autumn). This encourages a dense, bushy shape for the next season. Remove spent flowers (deadheading) throughout the season.
- Pests: Keep an eye out for sap-sucking pests like scale, aphids, and whitefly. They can be treated effectively with a horticultural oil spray (like Eco-Oil), ensuring you spray the undersides of the leaves.
Usage:
- Hedges and Borders: Its compact, tidy size and dense foliage make it an outstanding choice for low, fragrant hedging along pathways or garden beds.
- Containers/Pots: Excellent for growing in pots on patios, balconies, or near entryways, allowing you to move it to a protected spot and enjoy the fragrance up close.
- Cut Flowers: The sweetly-scented blooms are popular for cutting and bringing indoors.
- Sensory Gardens: An absolute must-have due to its highly appealing fragrance.
