Description
Gardenia thunbergia (Rubiaceae) Forest Gardenia (e), Witkatjepiering (a), umValasangweni (z), mKhangazi (x). This hardy, evergreen shrub does well in both sun and light shade. It has glossy green leaves and a wonderful branching structure. The flowers appear in early to late summer and are white and heavily scented, especially at night as they are moth pollinated. It has very decorative, egg-shaped fruits, which persist on the plant. With its beautiful form and white stems it makes a worthwhile addition to the garden even though it is a little slow growing. Plant in full sun or semi-shade. Used medicinally. Size 2 to 5m. S.A. No. 692. Sowing: Sow seeds in summer. Locality: Ex Hort. Harvest: August 2021
