This exceptional evergreen shrub is a true treasure, renowned for its intensely fragrant, pristine white flowers that emerge in late spring and continue to bloom sporadically through summer. The classic, creamy white blossoms provide a striking contrast against its glossy, dark green foliage, creating a luxurious and elegant look in any landscape. Sweetheart Gardenia maintains a compact, rounded form, typically reaching a manageable size of 2 feet tall and wide, making it perfect for planting near patios, entryways, or in containers where its delightful fragrance can be fully appreciated. It also makes a charming low hedge or a beautiful accent in a mixed border.
The Sweetheart Gardenia thrives in a location with partial shade, especially protection from intense afternoon sun, particularly in our Arizona climate. Morning sun with afternoon shade is ideal for optimal flowering and foliage health. It prefers consistently moist, acidic, and well-drained soil. While gardenias are not typically considered deer-resistant, their strong fragrance often deters browsing.
To give your Sweetheart Gardenia the very best start and encourage its lush growth, incorporate Watters Premium Mulch into the soil when planting. This rich, organic mulch will help maintain consistent soil moisture, which is crucial for gardenias, as well as suppress weeds and slowly release beneficial nutrients. For an abundance of those captivating, fragrant blooms and vibrant green foliage, feed your Sweetheart Gardenia with Watters 7-4-4 All-Purpose Plant Food every spring as new growth emerges. This specially formulated food provides the essential nutrients for healthy growth and prolific flowering in our local soils.
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