Houseplant of the week: Dwarf Gardenia

Dwarf Gardenia in modern pot on tabletop

This fragrant beauty brings elegance and a sweet aroma to your indoor oasis.

In this article

1 Why will I love it?
2 Light or shade?
3 Where should I put it?
4 How do I keep it alive?
5 Did you know?

Why will I love it?

The Dwarf Gardenia (Gardenia jasminoides ‘Radicans’) will captivate you with its glossy, dark green leaves and stunning white blooms that emit a delightful fragrance. Perfect for adding a touch of elegance and a sweet scent to any indoor space, this plant is a must-have for those who appreciate beauty and aroma.

Light or shade?

While the Dwarf Gardenia thrives in bright, indirect light, it can also tolerate partial shade. To encourage blooming and maintain its lush foliage, place it in a spot where it can bask in filtered sunlight for about 4 to 6 hours each day. A south or west-facing window would be ideal.

Where should I put it?

Thanks to its compact size, the Dwarf Gardenia is perfect for tabletops, desks, or as a charming accent on a bookshelf. It can also be placed in a bright bathroom where it can enjoy the humidity. During the warmer months, you can even move it outdoors to a shaded patio or balcony.

How do I keep it alive?

Consistency is key when caring for a Dwarf Gardenia. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, allowing the top inch to dry out between waterings. Opt for well-draining, acidic soil to keep this plant happy. Maintaining a warm environment between 18-24°C (65-75°F) is ideal, along with moderate to high humidity. If needed, increase humidity by placing a tray of water nearby or using a humidifier. Fertilize every 4-6 weeks during the growing season with an acid-loving plant fertilizer.

Did you know?

The Dwarf Gardenia is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia and is a popular plant in bonsai cultivation due to its manageable size and stunning flowers. While it’s a joy to have indoors, remember that its blooms can be sensitive to touch, so handle them with care. It’s also important to note that gardenias can be toxic if ingested, so keep them out of reach of curious pets and children.

With its fragrant blooms and lush foliage, the Dwarf Gardenia is truly a standout choice for this week’s houseplant spotlight. Happy gardening!