Gardenia 'Magnifica' is one of Australia's most popular flowering shrubs, renowned for its large, beautifully fragrant double white flowers and glossy evergreen foliage. Flowering from late spring through summer, with additional flushes throughout the warmer months, it creates a spectacular display while filling the garden with its rich perfume. Its dense, rounded habit makes it an excellent choice for hedging, feature planting, borders, courtyards and containers. Easy to grow and highly rewarding, 'Magnifica' is a timeless favourite for Australian gardens.

Flowers

Large, fully double creamy white flowers appear from late spring through summer, often with repeat flowering during autumn in warmer climates. The intensely fragrant blooms are ideal for cutting and are highly attractive to bees and other beneficial pollinators.

Foliage

Glossy, deep green evergreen leaves provide a lush backdrop to the spectacular flowers and remain attractive throughout the year.

Fruit

Small orange seed capsules may develop after flowering but are uncommon in cultivated gardens. The plant is primarily grown for its magnificent flowers and attractive foliage.

Form & Size

A dense, rounded evergreen shrub with a naturally compact growth habit.

Mature Size: Approximately 1.5–2m high × 1.5–2m wide

Growing Conditions

Sun: Full sun to part shade. In warmer climates, protection from hot afternoon sun is beneficial.

Soil: Prefers rich, well-drained, slightly acidic soils with plenty of organic matter.

Water: Water regularly during establishment. Once established, maintain consistent soil moisture, particularly during flowering and extended dry periods.

Frost: Tolerates light frosts but should be protected from severe frost when young.

Wind: Prefers sheltered positions protected from strong, drying winds.

Climate: Well suited to subtropical, tropical, warm temperate and coastal climates throughout Australia.

Uses

• Feature shrub
• Low hedging
• Fragrant gardens
• Courtyard gardens
• Pots and containers
• Entrance planting
• Cottage gardens
• Formal gardens
• Cut flowers

Maintenance

Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a compact shape and encourage new growth. Feed with a fertiliser formulated for acid-loving plants during spring and late summer. Mulch well to retain soil moisture and keep roots cool, avoiding mulch against the stem.

Notes

Gardenia 'Magnifica' is treasured for its exceptionally large, highly fragrant flowers and glossy evergreen foliage. It performs best in slightly acidic soils with regular watering and makes a stunning feature plant near outdoor entertaining areas, entrances or windows where its beautiful fragrance can be fully appreciated.

Companion Plants

• Camellia
• Azalea
• Magnolia 'Little Gem'
• Nandina
• Liriope 'Emerald Cascade'
• Lomandra 'Little Pal'
• Clivia
• Star Jasmine
• Buxus microphylla var. japonica

Common Name: Magnifica Gardenia

Botanical Name: Gardenia augusta 'Magnifica'

Family: Rubiaceae

Origin: Cultivated selection of Gardenia augusta, originating from tropical and subtropical Asia.