Trailing Gardenia Gardenia jasminoides 'Radicans'

'Radicans' cape jasmine or creeping gardenia is a broadleaf, evergreen, cultivar in the Rubiaceae (coffee) family. Gardenias are native to southern China, Taiwan, Japan, and Vietnam.

As the common name implies, this gardenia’s habit is low and spreading with a dwarf habit.  The showy white flowers have the same heady fragrance as the parent plant but they are smaller.  Prune off dead blooms to encourage rebloom.  It will bloom boldly in late spring, and then on and off through the summer. Gardenia’s orange fruits appear in fall and attract birds.

It requires part shade to full sun; however, some afternoon shade is advisable as leaves may scorch and buds may drop. Acidic soil that is high in organic matter and has good drainage is a must. If soil is too alkaline, leaves will yellow and blooms may drop. It is heat and drought tolerant and deer resistant but is not frost tolerant and should be protected from cold winter winds.  

Creeping gardenia makes an excellent foundation plant, low-hedge groundcover, or border planting. Place it beside a patio or walkway to fully enjoy its large and fragrant blooms. It even works well planted in containers.   

Quick ID Hints:

• Flower bud has spiral, 'barber pole' appearance
• Flowers fragrant, white/cream, double, waxy, and 1 to 2 inches wide
• Low mounding evergreen shrub with shiny, green, elliptical, wrinkled opposite leaves or in whorls of three

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: Aphids, mealybugs, scales, and spider mites are occasional insect pests.  Anthracnose, powdery mildew, leaf spot, and sooty mold are occasional disease problems.  

The Clemson Cooperative Extension Home and Garden Information Center has a factsheet on common gardenia diseases and other problems.

VIDEO Created by Elizabeth Meyer for "Trees, Shrubs and Conifers" a plant identification course offered in partnership with Longwood Gardens.

More information on Gardenia jasminoides.