Gardenia Jasminoides 'Belmont' (Cape Jasmine)

 The variety is an extraordinarily heavy producer and can be propagated rapidly. If not pinched back this variety blooms almost continuously and readily adapts itself to maximum production of blossoms in the Winter when they are so valuable. In the garden and landscape, expect flowering to be heaviest in spring and summer with some repeat flowering into fall on mature plants.

These old garden favorites are still commonly referred to as Cape Jasmine or Cape Jessamine in many southern gardens but no matter what you call them the fragrance of a Gardenia is unforgettable.

Gardenias perform best in a fertile, well-drained, humus rich, acidic soil with average moisture. They seem to do best in hot southern regions where they get some midday or afternoon shade but need good light for the best flower production. Provide your Gardenias with good air circulation to minimize pest infestations. In the northern most reaches of their range they will benefit from protection from cold, drying winter winds. Gardenias make good container plants and can be enjoyed indoors where not winter hardy. Prune after flowering.

Did you know that Gardenias attract hummingbird moths with their fragrant and easy to spot white to rarely yellow or orange flowers. Some species, like Gardenia nitida and G. tubifera, are obviously moth pollinated with their flattened corollas that open at the ends of 3-5" long arching narrow tubes. Gardenia flowers are, generally speaking, the most fragrant near sunset and during the early evening hours making them obvious choices for Moon Moth gardens as well as in containers. Site Gardenias near walks, patios, and within easy reach for indoor arrangements. 

Grows To: 5-8'H x 4-5'W

USDA Cold Hardiness Zones: 7,8,9,10

Outdoor Light: Full sun, Mostly sunny, Part sun, Part shade - midday shade in hot summer climates

Indoor Light: Direct sunlight, High

pH Range: Acidic, Mildly Acidic

Soil & Moisture: Average moist, moderately fertile, acidic soils with good drainage.

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Flowering Period: Spring and summer for garden and landscape plants to nearly year round under warm tropical conditions

Fertilizing: Feed early spring-midsummer, use a slow release, non burning fertilizer for acid loving plants.

Pruning: Between the first spring flowering and before midsummer typically.

When to Plant: Anytime of year in zones 9-10. Plant out once all danger of freeze and frost has passed in 7-8 until about early to midsummer.

Deer Resistance: Rarely Bothered

Dormant Shipping: Evergreen, shipped year round if temps are acceptable.

Native To / Origin: US Gardens - Walter E. Lenk, Belmont Estate, Massachusetts - 1934