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Description
Gardenia Carinata, also known as Cape Jasmine, is a flowering evergreen shrub that is native to China and Taiwan. It is a member of the Rubiaceae family and is known for its fragrant, white flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. The plant typically grows to a height of 4-6 feet and a width of 3-4 feet. It has glossy, dark green leaves that are oval-shaped and about 2-4 inches long.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Genus | Gardenia |
| Species | Carinata |
Appearance
Gardenia Carinata is a beautiful shrub that is prized for its fragrant, white flowers. The flowers are about 2-3 inches in diameter and have a waxy texture. They are usually solitary, but can also appear in small clusters. The plant blooms from late spring to early summer and can produce flowers for several weeks. The leaves of Gardenia Carinata are glossy and dark green. They are oval-shaped and about 2-4 inches long. The plant typically grows to a height of 4-6 feet and a width of 3-4 feet.
Care Guide
To care for Gardenia Carinata, you should provide it with consistent moisture, well-draining soil, and partial sun to full shade. Here are some detailed instructions on how to care for this plant:- Water: Gardenia Carinata prefers consistent moisture, so it should be watered regularly. However, be careful not to overwater it, as this can lead to root rot. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.- Fertilization: Gardenia Carinata should be fertilized every two to four weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Use a fertilizer that is specifically designed for acid-loving plants.- Soil: Gardenia Carinata prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It should be planted in a location with good drainage, as it does not tolerate standing water.- Sunlight: Gardenia Carinata prefers partial sun to full shade. It should be planted in a location that receives morning sun and afternoon shade.- Hardiness Zones: Gardenia Carinata is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Gardenia Carinata is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including:- Whiteflies: These tiny insects feed on the sap of the plant and can cause yellowing of the leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.- Mealybugs: These insects also feed on the sap of the plant and can cause stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing of the leaves and webs on the plant. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.- Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering and can be prevented by ensuring that the soil is well-draining and not waterlogged.
Habitat
Gardenia Carinata is native to China and Taiwan and is often found growing in forests and mountainous regions. It prefers a warm, humid climate and well-draining soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Gardenia Carinata be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Gardenia Carinata can be grown indoors in a bright, humid location.Q: How often should I fertilize my Gardenia Carinata?
A: Gardenia Carinata should be fertilized every 2-4 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer).Q: Can Gardenia Carinata tolerate full sun?
A: No, Gardenia Carinata prefers partial sun to full shade.Q: How often should I water my Gardenia Carinata?
A: Gardenia Carinata prefers consistent moisture, so it should be watered regularly. However, be careful not to overwater it, as this can lead to root rot.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Gardenia Carinata:- Gardenia jasminoides (Cape Jasmine)- Gardenia augusta (Gardenia)- Gardenia thunbergia (Forest Gardenia)
References
– “Gardenia Carinata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed May 25, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287797.- “Gardenia Carinata.” PlantFiles. Accessed May 25, 2021. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/184547/.
