Gardenia Frostproof
Gardenia jasminoides Frostproof is an exceptional variety of Gardenia or Cape Jasmine that stands out for its resilience to colder temperatures and enchanting, fragrant flowers. This hardy shrub brings the classic beauty of Gardenias to gardens where traditional varieties might struggle.
Reaching a manageable size of about 1 metre in height and spread, Gardenia Frostproof is perfect for small gardens, borders, or as a fragrant addition to patios and outdoor living areas. Its compact, bushy habit makes it an excellent choice for creating low hedges or as a foundation plant.
The true allure of this plant lies in its large, velvety white flowers that bloom profusely from late spring to early summer. These flowers are visually striking and emit a rich, sweet fragrance that can fill an entire garden space, making it a favourite among gardeners who appreciate sensory experiences. Its glossy, dark green leaves provide a beautiful backdrop to its flowers and maintain their vibrancy throughout the year, adding evergreen interest to the landscape.
This variety is notably more cold-tolerant than traditional Gardenias, making it suitable for gardeners in cooler regions. It thrives in well-drained, acidic soil and prefers a location that receives full to partial sunlight. Regular watering, especially during dry spells, and a layer of mulch to maintain soil moisture and temperature, will keep it flourishing.
Trimming: Prune lightly after flowering to shape the plant and encourage bushier growth. Remove any dead or damaged branches. A more significant prune can be done in early spring if needed.
Deadheading: Regularly remove spent flowers to promote continued flowering and maintain a neat appearance.
Fertilising: Feed with an acid-loving plant fertiliser every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring to summer) to support healthy growth and flowering.
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply during dry periods, especially when the plant is establishing. Gardenias prefer well-drained, slightly acidic soils.
Pest Control: Watch for common pests like aphids, whiteflies, or scale. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil as needed.
Disease Management: Gardenias can be prone to root rot, so ensure proper drainage to avoid waterlogging. Yellowing leaves may indicate iron deficiency; treat with a chelated iron supplement. Keep an eye out for powdery mildew, which can be treated with a fungicide if necessary.
Enjoy complimentary delivery anywhere in mainland New Zealand when you purchase plants worth $250 or more*.
For orders below $250, the following flat-rate delivery charges are applicable:
- Urban delivery within mainland New Zealand: $19.95
- Rural delivery within mainland New Zealand: $39.95
- Waiheke, Chatham and Great Barrier Islands: Please contact us for shipping options.
We aim to have all orders shipped within 14 days from the order date, unless a different shipping date is specified alongside a product.
