Gardenia Augusta 'Florida'

Fragrant Gardenia / Florida Gardenia

Botanical Name: Gardenia augusta ‘Florida’ (syn. G. jasminoides)
Family: Rubiaceae
Origin: East Asia (China, Taiwan, Japan)
Plant Type: Evergreen shrub

Overview

A compact, classic perfumed garden shrub for South Australian courtyards and sheltered beds. ‘Florida’ carries glossy deep-green leaves and a long season of highly fragrant double white blooms, ideal near paths, doors and outdoor living where the scent can be enjoyed. Best in morning sun/afternoon shade, rich acidic soil and consistent moisture.

Key Features

• Mature Size: 0.8–1.2 m H × 0.8–1.2 m W (rounded, compact)
• Growth Rate: 20-40 cm per year under good conditions
• Foliage: Dense, glossy deep-green leaves; neat, bushy habit
• Flowers: Double, creamy-white rosettes; intensely perfumed; main flush late spring–summer, with spot blooms into autumn
  
• Seasonal Interest: Evergreen structure year-round; peak floral display late spring–summer with repeat blooms
• Wildlife Value: Flowers attract butterflies and pollinators; dense shrubbery offers small-bird shelter
• Tolerance: Heat-tolerant (with afternoon shade), wind-tolerant (best with shelter from hot, dry winds), second-line coastal-tolerant; light frost (protect from hard frost); clay-tolerant with drainage; not drought-tolerant — keep evenly moist
• Planting Density: Hedges: 2–3 plants per metre (tight). Borders: 1 per metre (dense) or 1 per 1.5 m (looser)
• Pet Friendly: No — mildly toxic if ingested (may cause vomiting/diarrhoea in pets)

Where It Works Best

• Sunlight: Bright morning sun to part shade; avoid harsh afternoon summer sun
• Soil: Rich, free-draining, humus-rich soil; avoid waterlogging and lime
• Water Needs: Establishment: 2 deep soaks/week for 8–12 weeks. Established: deep soak weekly in summer (more in heatwaves); monthly in winter if dry — keep soil evenly moist
• Maintenance: Mulch with acidic mulch (pine bark/needles); light prune after main flowering to shape; feed with acid-forming camellia/azalea fertiliser in late winter and mid-summer; apply iron chelate if leaves yellow (chlorosis)
• Lifespan: 15-25 years
• Climate Zones: Suited to temperate and Mediterranean SA gardens in frost-sheltered microclimates; thrives with summer humidity or sheltered courtyards
• Soil pH: Acidic preferred; avoid alkaline/limey soils (use acidifying fertilisers)

Landscape & Design Ideas

• Feature near entries/paths and alfresco areas for fragrance
• Low hedges or clipped mounds along terraces and garden rooms
• Large pots in sheltered spots (easy to protect from heat/frost)

Why You Will Love It

The signature perfume of summer with glossy foliage all year. ‘Florida’ delivers months of luxurious, double white blooms, thrives in SA’s sheltered gardens and containers, and elevates outdoor spaces with fragrance-first appeal and classic style.