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Description
Gardenia Jasminoides Belmont, also known as Gardenia Belmont, is a beautiful flowering plant that is a favorite among gardeners due to its exquisite fragrance and aesthetic appeal. It is a cultivar of the Gardenia Jasminoides species, which is native to China and Japan. The plant features dark green, glossy leaves and large, fragrant, white flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Genus | Gardenia |
Appearance
The Gardenia Jasminoides Belmont has dark green, glossy leaves and large, fragrant, white flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. The flowers are about 2-3 inches in diameter and have a waxy texture. They have a sweet, heady fragrance that is hard to miss. The plant can grow up to 4-6 feet tall and wide, making it a great choice for hedges or as a specimen plant. The leaves are elliptical and about 2-4 inches in length.
Care Guide
Proper care of the Gardenia Jasminoides Belmont is essential for keeping the plant healthy and blooming. Here are some tips:
- Water: The plant needs regular watering, especially during the hot summer months. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, as this can cause root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant regularly with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can cause leaf burn.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining, acidic soil with a pH between 5.0 and 6.0.
- Sunlight: The plant needs partial shade to full sun exposure for optimal growth and flowering.
- Hardiness Zones: The Gardenia Jasminoides Belmont is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Gardenia Jasminoides Belmont is susceptible to a range of pests and diseases, including:
- Whiteflies: These tiny, white insects can damage the leaves and cause them to turn yellow.
- Aphids: These small insects can also damage the leaves and cause them to curl and turn yellow.
- Scale insects: These insects can cause yellowing of the leaves and stunted growth.
- Root rot: Overwatering can cause root rot, which can lead to the death of the plant.
Habitat
The Gardenia Jasminoides Belmont is native to China and Japan, where it grows in forested areas and along stream banks. It prefers warm, humid climates and acidic soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I grow the Gardenia Jasminoides Belmont in a container?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in a container, but make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should I fertilize the Gardenia Jasminoides Belmont?
A: Fertilize the plant every 2-3 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can I prune the Gardenia Jasminoides Belmont?
A: Yes, you can prune the plant to control its size and shape. Prune after flowering to encourage new growth.
Q: Do I need to protect the Gardenia Jasminoides Belmont from frost?
A: Yes, the plant is not frost-tolerant and should be protected from frost in colder climates.
Related Plants
- Gardenia Augusta
- Gardenia Jasminoides
- Gardenia Radicans
- Gardenia Thunbergia
References
- “Gardenia Jasminoides Belmont.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=e286.
- “Gardenia Jasminoides Belmont.” Plant Care Today, 23 May 2019, plantcaretoday.com/gardenia-jasminoides-belmont.html.
- “Gardenia Jasminoides Belmont.” Southern Living, 8 Oct. 2009, www.southernliving.com/home-garden/gardens/gardenia-jasminoides-belmont.
