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Gardenia augusta is the best known species of the genus, an
evergreen, glossy-leafed shrub from southern China, though long
supposed native to the Cape of Good Hope, hence the name Cape
jasmine.
It is almost always seen in gardens and flower shops in one of its
double-flowered cultivars, all with white, strongly perfumed flowers
which change to pale yellow as they age.
The best known is Florida, a 3 ft (1 m) tall shrub with flowers
about 3 in (8 cm) wide; Magnifica is larger in all its parts though
less generous with its flowers; Radicans is almost prostrate, with
small flowers and leaves.
Flowers appear over a long season from late spring.
Cultivation: They need well-drained, slightly acidic soil and prefer
light shade.
Generous water in the warmer months and a regular dressing of
compost and fertilizer ensures good flowering and keeps foliage a
deep glossy green.
Gardenias are easily propagated from cuttings . |
