Gardenia augusta 'Magnifica' | Multiple Sizes

Plant Description:

Gardenia augusta 'Magnifica'

Gardenia augusta 'Magnifica', commonly known as Cape Jasmine, is a classic evergreen shrub highly regarded for its stunning, fragrant white flowers and glossy green foliage. Perfect for Australian gardens, this variety is larger and more robust than other gardenias, making it an excellent choice for hedging, feature planting, or container gardening.

Key Features:

• Foliage: Glossy, dark green leaves that provide a lush and dense appearance year-round.
• Flowers: Large, creamy-white, double blooms with an intoxicating fragrance, appearing from late spring through summer and often sporadically into autumn.
• Size: Grows to approximately 1.5–2 metres tall and wide, making it a great medium-sized shrub.
• Climate Suitability: Thrives in tropical, subtropical, and warm temperate regions of Australia, such as Queensland, New South Wales, and parts of Victoria and Western Australia.

Ideal Uses in Australian Gardens:

• Hedging: Creates a dense, aromatic screen or boundary.
• Feature Plant: Ideal as a focal point in garden beds or as part of a mixed border.
• Containers: Perfect for patios, verandas, or balconies in decorative pots.
• Cottage and Formal Gardens: Complements traditional and formal garden designs beautifully.

Growing Conditions:

• Soil: Prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soils rich in organic matter. Mulch well to maintain soil moisture and temperature.
• Light: Grows best in full sun to part shade. Too much shade can reduce flowering.
• Watering: Requires regular watering, especially during dry spells. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
• Temperature: Enjoys warm climates but requires protection from frost in cooler regions.

Care Tips for Australian Conditions:

• Mulching: Use a thick layer of organic mulch, such as sugarcane or bark chips, to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Fertilising: Feed with a fertiliser formulated for acid-loving plants, such as azaleas or camellias, during the growing season. Apply in spring and again in midsummer.
• Pruning: Lightly prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushy growth. Remove spent blooms to promote new flowers.
• Pests and Diseases: Watch for scale, aphids, or mealybugs, which can be treated with horticultural oils. Yellowing leaves may indicate nutrient deficiencies or pH imbalances; check soil conditions and amend as needed.

Gardenia augusta 'Magnifica' is a timeless addition to Australian gardens, combining beauty, fragrance, and versatility. With proper care, this stunning shrub will reward you with years of lush foliage and sweetly scented blooms.

Position: Full Sun/Part Sun

Mature Height: 2m

Mature Width: 1.5m