Gardenia jasminoides , normally known as Cape Jasmine , belong to the Rubiaceae class , which is know for include coffee and many other flowering plants . Within this family , it ’s part of the Gardenia genus , name in honor of Dr. Alexander Garden , an 18th - century Scotch - American plant scientist . This coinage is an evergreen plant shrub or small tree , appreciated for its fragrant flowers .

The history of Gardenia jasminoides draw back to its instauration to the Western human beings during the eighteenth C through botanic exploration in Asia . Its name , Cape Jasmine , is middling misleading as it does not originate from Africa ’s mantle but was first cultivated there by Dutch traders . Over time , this plant has been valued not only for its cosmetic quality but also for its use in traditional Chinese medicine , perfumery , and as a symbolic representation of purity and refinement in various culture .

Gardenia jasminoides is native to warm , humid areas of Asia , specifically China , Taiwan , Japan , and Vietnam . It thrives in subtropical and tropical climates where it has been cultivated for centuries . Its adaptability has pass to its spread across similar climates worldwide , make it a rough-cut decorative plant life in gardens where conditions mime its native environment .

This species is renowned for its glossy , benighted green leaves , which contrast beautifully with its white or ointment - colour flowers . The blooms are typically big , ranging from single to fully duple forms , with a waxy texture and an lift up fragrance especially stiff at night . The flowers often flower from late fountain to early fall , and some varieties can bloom periodically throughout the year in ideal condition . Gardenia jasminoides also produces a little , orange - yellow fruit , though it ’s not unremarkably seen in cultivation due to the focus on its flowered show .

With right fear , Gardenia jasminoides can inhabit for many years , often pass 15 years . Its length of service is support by its evergreen nature , which means it continues to look vivacious throughout the year , provided it ’s hold in the veracious conditions . Regular pruning and maintenance can extend its lifespan and further robust blossoming .

Gardenia jasminoides thrives in USDA Hardiness Zones 8 to 11 , where wintertime are mild and summer are warm and humid . In these zones , the works can be grown outdoors year - round . However , with the advent of unfearing cultivars , some potpourri can now be successfully grown in Zone 7 with auspices from cold breeze . In cooler mood , it ’s often cultivated in pots , allow for indoor overwintering to protect against hoar .

Gardenia jasminoides (Cape jasmine) Characteristics

Gardenia jasminoides (Cape jasmine) Cultivation

Soil Requirements

Light and Temperature

Watering

Humidity

fertilisation

Pruning

Pest and Disease Management

Propagation

Winter Care

Potting and Repotting

Special Considerations