Contents
Description
Gardenia Jasminoides Radicans, commonly known as dwarf gardenia, is a small evergreen shrub that belongs to the Rubiaceae family. It is a popular ornamental plant that is native to China and Japan. The plant has glossy, dark green leaves and produces fragrant white flowers that bloom from late spring to mid-summer. The flowers have a waxy texture and are often used in floral arrangements.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Genus | Gardenia |
Appearance
The dwarf gardenia has a compact, rounded growth habit and can grow up to 2 feet tall and wide. The leaves are glossy, dark green, and oval-shaped, measuring about 2 inches long. The plant produces fragrant white flowers that are about 2 inches in diameter. The flowers have a waxy texture and a pinwheel shape with overlapping petals. The blooms appear from late spring to mid-summer and can last for several weeks.
Care Guide
The dwarf gardenia requires specific care to thrive:
Water
The plant needs consistent moisture, but it is essential not to overwater it. Water the plant deeply once a week or when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Fertilization
Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two to three weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce the frequency to once every four to six weeks during fall and winter.
Soil
The dwarf gardenia prefers acidic soil that is rich in organic matter. Use a soil mix that contains sphagnum peat moss or composted pine bark to increase acidity.
Sunlight
The plant grows best in partial shade or filtered sunlight. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves and cause them to yellow.
Hardiness Zones
The dwarf gardenia grows well in USDA hardiness zones 7 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The dwarf gardenia is susceptible to pests and diseases, including:
Pests
- Whiteflies
- Aphids
- Mealybugs
- Spider mites
Diseases
- Leaf spot
- Root rot
- Powdery mildew
- Sooty mold
Prevent pests and diseases by providing the plant with proper care and maintenance. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Habitat
The dwarf gardenia is native to China and Japan and grows in temperate regions with mild winters and warm summers. The plant prefers well-drained soil and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I grow dwarf gardenia indoors?
A: Yes, you can grow dwarf gardenia indoors, but it requires bright, indirect light and consistent moisture.
Q: How often should I prune my dwarf gardenia?
A: Prune the plant after flowering to shape it and remove dead or damaged branches.
Q: Can I propagate dwarf gardenia from cuttings?
A: Yes, you can propagate dwarf gardenia from softwood cuttings taken in late spring or early summer.
Q: Why are the leaves of my dwarf gardenia turning yellow?
A: Yellow leaves can be a sign of overwatering, poor drainage, or nutrient deficiencies. Check the soil moisture and adjust watering accordingly.
Related Plants
- Gardenia jasminoides
- Gardenia thunbergia
- Gardenia tubifera
- Gardenia florida
References
- “Gardenia Jasminoides Radicans.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d307.
- “Dwarf Gardenia.” Clemson Cooperative Extension, Clemson University, www.clemson.edu/extension/hgic/plants/landscape/shrubs/hgic1073.html.
- “Gardenia Jasminoides Radicans.” North Carolina State University Extension, www.ces.ncsu.edu/depts/hort/consumer/factsheets/shrubs/gardenia_jasminoides_radicans.html.
