Ανώνυμος Βικιπαιδιστής · CC BY 3.0
About
The genus *Gardenia sp* is highly prized by hobbyists for its large, showy flowers, which typically feature a strong, sweet, and sometimes overpowering scent, often more noticeable at night. The species are generally cultivated as houseplants or shrubs, with many varieties being used in cultural traditions and cuisine.
Field notes
Morphology
Leaves are typically opposite or verticillate, varying from glossy and coriaceous (leathery) to thin and chartaceous (paper-like). Flowers are hermaphrodite, appearing solitary or in small terminal clusters, and usually have a funnel- or cylindrical-shaped corolla tube surrounded by 5-12 or more lobes.
Distribution & habitat
Native to the tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, Madagascar, Pacific Islands, and Australia.
Cultivation notes
Many species are cultivated as houseplants, requiring high humidity and bright, indirect light. They thrive in acidic soils with good drainage and prefer daytime temperatures of 20–23 °C and cooler evening temperatures of 15–16 °C. *Gardenia jasminoides* can grow up to 6 feet outdoors, but indoors, it typically remains under 18 inches.
History & etymology
The genus was named by Carl Linnaeus, though the name was first proposed to him in 1753 by Jane Colden. The type species is *Gardenia jasminoides*, first published by Ellis in 1761.
Habitat
- Altitude
- —
- Altitude Class
- —
Cultivation
- Difficulty
- intermediate
Crossed Gardenia with another species?
Register the cross — if it's not yet documented you'll be the first contributor. If someone already registered it, you'll be redirected to add your photo.