Gardenia Gardenia jasminoides
ABOUT
Gardenia, also known as Cape jasmine, is a lush and attractive plant with dark green, glossy, and leathery leaves that provide a beautiful backdrop for its flowers. The blooms are the star of the show, being highly fragrant with a sweet, heady scent that can fill a garden space. These white flowers are typically large and creamy white, although some may have a pale yellow hue. The blossoms are waxy in texture and usually present as either single or double forms, with multiple layers of petals in the double-flowered varieties giving them a particularly sumptuous appearance. The plant has a bushy habit, with branches that spread to create a full and rounded shape. The leaves can be arranged oppositely or in whorls, and may occasionally feature a few short, thorny outgrowths. The gardenia's fruit is a long, oval capsule with a leathery texture and it houses small seeds, but it is the plant's fragrant and showy flowers that are most admired and recognized.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Rubiaceae
Synonyms
Cape Jasmine, Common Gardenia, Cape Jessamine, Gardenia
Common names
Gardenia augusta, Gardenia grandiflora, Gardenia florida, Gardenia radicans, Genipa florida, Genipa grandiflora, Warneria augusta.
ToxicityTo humans
Gardenia is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There is no significant evidence of Gardenia jasminoides causing poisoning when ingested by humans. Therefore, the consumption of parts of the Gardenia plant is unlikely to result in symptoms of poisoning or severe consequences.
To pets
Gardenia is also considered non-toxic to pets, including dogs and cats. It does not appear on the list of toxic plants provided by organizations such as the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals). While the plant is not thought to cause significant toxicity, ingestion can sometimes cause mild gastrointestinal upset in some pets, which may lead to symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea. However, these symptoms are typically not severe. If a pet ingests a large amount of the plant and shows signs of distress, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
3-6 feet (0.91-1.83 meters)
Spread
2-4 feet (0.61-1.22 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Gardenia's creamy white flowers and glossy dark green leaves make it an attractive addition to gardens.
- Fragrance: Gardenias are renowned for their strong, sweet fragrance that can perfume an entire garden area.
- Landscape Versatility: They can be used in various landscaping designs, including hedges, flower beds, and as focal points.
- Attracts Pollinators: Gardenias attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinating insects, which are beneficial for the health of the garden.
- Emotional Wellbeing: The beauty and fragrance of gardenias have a calming effect which can contribute to reduced stress levels and an improved mood.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Gardenia jasminoides has been used in traditional medicine for its potential to reduce inflammation.
- Antioxidant: The plant contains compounds that may have antioxidant properties, helping to protect cells from oxidative stress.
- Antibacterial: Certain components in Gardenia jasminoides, such as genipin, have shown antibacterial activity in some studies.
- Hepatoprotective: There is evidence suggesting that Gardenia jasminoides can help protect the liver from certain types of damage.
- Anxiolytic: Some research indicates that the plant might possess anxiolytic effects, helping to reduce anxiety.
- Antidepressant: Gardenia jasminoides may have properties that could influence neurotransmitter activity related to depression.
- Hypolipidemic: The plant has been used to help manage lipid levels in the body, which could be beneficial for cardiovascular health.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Gardenia flowers are used in traditional Chinese clothing, especially in hair accessories for women, to add fragrance and elegance.
- The yellow dye extracted from Gardenia fruits is historically used in food coloring and fabric dyeing.
- In some cultures, the flowers of the Gardenia are used to decorate wedding venues or are included in bridal bouquets symbolizing purity and love.
- Essential oils from Gardenia flowers are used in perfumery, providing a rich, sweet, and enduring fragrance.
- Naturalized Gardenia plants are used in landscaping as hedge plants because of their dense, dark green foliage and attractive blossoms.
- The wood of Gardenia plants is sometimes used for making small decorative items or in inlay work due to its fine grain.
- Gardenia blooms are used as natural indicators in pH experiments; they change color depending on the acidity or alkalinity of a solution.
- Dried Gardenia fruit pods are occasionally used in potpourri mixes to add subtle fragrance.
- Gardenia flowers are sometimes used in the production of flavored teas, imparting a unique aroma and taste.
- In some regions, the flowers are used in religious ceremonies and offerings as a symbol of peace and divine purity.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiGardenias are associated with purity and sweetness, which can enhance the energy of compassion and love when placed in the relationship corner (Southwest) of a home. They are also believed to bring good luck and help reduce stress and anxiety when placed in the bedroom or living areas.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Gardenia is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Purity: Gardenias have a bright white color that often symbolizes purity and innocence.
- Love: Due to their intoxicating fragrance and beauty, gardenias are commonly associated with expressions of deep, romantic love.
- Secret Love: In the language of flowers, gardenias can represent a secret or hidden love.
- Refinement: The elegant appearance of the gardenia signifies refinement and grace.
- Peace: The pure white petals of the gardenia can also symbolize peace and harmony.
WaterGardenias, commonly known as Cape Jasmine, require consistent moisture and should be watered every week with about one inch of water. They thrive in well-drained soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged. During periods of high heat or drought, watering frequency should increase to maintain soil moisture. It's best to water gardenias at the base to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases. Ensure that in a week, the plant receives approximately 0.6 gallons of water, adjusting as necessary for temperature and humidity.
LightCape Jasmine prefers bright, indirect light and should be placed where they can receive morning sunlight and afternoon shade. Direct hot summer sun can scorch the leaves, so a spot that offers protection during the peak afternoon hours is ideal. They can also thrive under light shade, such as beneath a tree canopy or on a north-facing patio.
TemperatureCape Jasmine enjoys a moderate temperature range, thriving in conditions between 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. They can tolerate temperatures as low as 15 degrees Fahrenheit but may suffer damage. The ideal conditions for Gardenias would be a consistent temperature avoiding fluctuations, especially during their blooming period.
PruningPruning Cape Jasmine should be conducted to maintain shape and encourage bushiness; it also helps in removing any diseased or dead wood. The best time to prune is right after its blooming season, as pruning too late can remove next season's buds. Prune sparingly, as gardenias can be sensitive to heavy pruning, usually once a year is sufficient.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Gardenia, commonly known as Cape Jasmine, should be well-draining and rich in organic matter with a slightly acidic pH between 5.0 to 6.5. A mix of equal parts peat, pine bark, and perlite or coarse sand is ideal for ensuring proper drainage and acidity.
RepottingCape Jasmine should be repotted every 2 to 3 years, or when it becomes root-bound. It's best to repot in the spring before the onset of the growth season.
Humidity & MistingCape Jasmine thrives in high humidity conditions, ideally between 60% to 70%. Maintaining this humidity level is crucial for the plant's health and flower production.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright indirect light; maintain high humidity for Cape Jasmine.
Outdoor
Grow in partial shade, sheltered from wind, for Cape Jasmine.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleGardenia jasminoides, commonly known as gardenia, begins its life as a seed that germinates in warm, moist soil, taking a few weeks to sprout. Once the seedling emerges, it gradually develops into a bushy evergreen shrub with glossy, dark green leaves. After establishing a mature root system and foliage, the gardenia plant enters its flowering phase, typically in late spring to mid-summer, producing fragrant white or pale yellow flowers. The blooms are often succeeded by small, orange or red berry-like fruit containing seeds. If conditions are favorable, these seeds can be dispersed to start a new life cycle or the plant can be propagated via cuttings. The gardenia shrub can live several years, thriving with proper care including well-drained acidic soil, adequate sunlight, regular watering, and occasional pruning to encourage bushy growth and flowering.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Propogation: The most popular method of propagating Gardenia jasminoides, commonly known as Gardenia, is through stem cuttings. This typically involves taking a 4 to 6 inch (10 to 15 cm) cutting from a healthy, non-flowering branch during early summer. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cut end dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development. The cutting is then inserted into a well-draining potting mix, ensuring that at least two sets of leaf nodes are below the surface. Providing bottom heat and maintaining high humidity by covering the cutting with a plastic bag can improve chances of success. It usually takes a few weeks for the cutting to root, after which it can be gradually acclimated to less humid conditions.
