Gardenia radicans

What are the garden uses for Gardenia radicans in NZ?

Gardenia radicans is a much-loved shrub that is perfect for creating garden appeal. It is popular as a ground cover due to its glossy green foliage and fragrant white flowers. This plant makes for a great complement to a modern or cottage garden, bringing fragrance and elegance to a space. It is the low stature, gorgeous foliage, and fragrant flowers that makes this Gardenia an excellent choice for gardens across NZ.

What is the optimum Gardenia radicans planting distance?

The optimum plant spacing for a Gardenia radicans when grown as a ground cover depends on the desired effect. For a dense ground cover, space the plants 50-60 cm apart. For a less dense ground cover, space the plants 70 cm apart which will create a more natural look. If they are to be grown as discrete plants they will need to be spaced at least 90 cm apart.

Gardenia radicans for sale

The Plant Company has the best Gardenia radicans plants for sale in NZ. Our production nurseries specialise in growing amazing plants and our logistics team pack them carefully for our customers. The pricing is competitive and the quality is exceptional. Let us look after your Gardenia needs and impress you with both our products and service!

Gardenia radicans bonsai plants

Gardenia radicans is a great selection for Bonsai. The stems are pliable and it responds well to regular trimming. More importantly, the elegant flowers and foliage give additional texture and interest to this plant. If you are looking for Gardenia for bonsai, be sure to email shop@theplantcompany.co.nz and enquire about the grades available.

Gardenia radicans size

Gardenia radicans grows to about 40 cm tall and 70 cm wide as a general rule. It tends to grow taller in partial shade conditions compared to when grown in full sun. Similarly, the size also depends on the level of trimming and how well the plant is cared for with regards to fertiliser and watering during dry periods.

How to grow a Gardenia radicans hedge

The optimum plant spacing for a Gardenia radicans hedge is 20 cm between the plants. A close spacing is required so the plants push each other upwards as they compete for light. Be sure to use a stringline to get the line straight and start lightly trimming the sides once the plants show active growth. It can be grown as a trimmed hedge to about 30 cm tall. More often it is grown as an informal hedge, i.e., not trimmed. In this instance the plants are spaced 30-40 cm apart to allow the natural shape of the plant to display.

Can Gardenia radicans tolerate frost?

Gardenia radicans is considered to have some tolerance for light frost only. It can likely withstand brief periods where temperatures dip slightly below freezing (around -1°C) for a short time. However, it is still susceptible to damage from more severe or prolonged frosts. Younger Gardenia plants are generally more vulnerable to frost damage than established ones. Covering plants with frost cloth before the frost occurs is a great way to protect plants.

What growing conditions are best for Gardenia radicans?

Gardenia radicans grows best in full sun or partial shade on a well-drained site. It is tolerant of light frost only and does require shelter from wind. A soil rich in organic matter that does not dry out during summer is ideal. Clay soil, heavy soils, or areas with wetness should be avoided as the plants will struggle and are likely to fail. Heavy shade positions should be avoided also. The goal is to ensure they receive good amounts of dappled sunlight or about 3-4 hours of direct sun per day.