Aubry's Gardenia (Gardenia aubryi)

Aubry's Gardenia

Gardenia aubryi

Its creamy night-blooming blooms carry a rich, heady fragrance. Evergreen tropical shrub; common name: Aubry's Gardenia.

Partial sun
2–3/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Bright indirect light; tolerates partial shade, avoid harsh midday summer sun to prevent leaf scorch
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Watering Water thoroughly when the top 2–3 cm of soil is dry; avoid standing water to prevent root rot
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Temperature Thrives in warm, humid conditions; protect from temperatures below 12°C to avoid leaf drop
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Glossy, elliptical dark green leaves with smooth margins, arranged oppositely along woody stems
  • Flower: Tubular creamy-white blooms with 6–8 waxy petals, opening at night to release intense fragrance
  • Stem: Woody, light brown branching stems with smooth bark
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; mist foliage 2–3 times weekly to boost humidity

Fertilization

Diluted acidic liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks. Discontinue fertilization in autumn and winter when growth slows

Banana peel compost tea:Soak 2–3 chopped banana peels in 1 liter of water for 3 days, dilute 1:20 with water for root drench; discard solid peels to avoid odor and pest infestations
Pruning
  • Remove spent blooms promptly to encourage additional flowering
  • Trim overgrown branches in early spring to maintain a compact, rounded shape
  • Remove yellowing or damaged leaves to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA confirms no toxic effects on cats

Humans: No known toxic effects on humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: Symbolizes purity and secret love in some tropical cultural contexts

Usage: Ornamental shrub for garden borders, containers, or indoor fragrance display