Evergreen Shrub – Diamond Spire Gardenia

Diamond Spire Gardenia 

Botanical name: gardenia hybrid ‘leefive’ PP32516

Beginner friendly?: yes

Average size at maturity: 3-4 ft in height with a 2 ft spread 

Hardy zone:  zones 7-10

Foliage color: green 

Flower color: white 

Bloom time: spring-fall 

Growth rate: grows 1-2 ft per year 

Pruning instructions: prune to maintain desired shape and size when it has finished blooming in the summer to encourage new growth 

Propagation methods: propagate with cuttings in the spring or summer 

Landscape use: hedge, specimen plant, focal point, entrance accent, screens or pathways 

Light needs: 4-6 hours of sun per day 

Special features: fragrant blooms, great for narrow spaces, rebloomer, attracts pollinators 

Watering instructions: water when the top 1-2 inches of soil begin to dry 

Fertilizing instructions : use a slow-release, acidic fertilizer once a year in the early spring before new growth begins to emerge

Best time to plant: spring or fall 

Best type of soil: loam 

Companion plants: camellias, azaleas, boxwoods, hydrangeas

Toxicity level: non-toxic for humans but moderately toxic for pets if ingested 

Invasive species: no