Gardenia jasminoides Kleims Hardy

Kleim's Hardy Gardenia

Gardenia jasminoides ‘Kleim’s Hardy’ — commonly called Kleim’s Hardy Gardenia — is a compact, evergreen shrub valued for its intensely fragrant white flowers and glossy foliage. It forms a dense, rounded plant with dark green, leathery leaves that provide year-round structure in warmer climates. In late spring through early summer, it produces single, waxy white flowers with a sweet, classic gardenia fragrance, often with light repeat blooming.

Mature Size:
Width: 2–3 ft
Height: 2–3 ft

USDA Zones: 7a–10b (marginal in 7; best protection needed)
Light: Full sun to partial shade (prefers morning sun, afternoon shade in hot climates)
Soil: Acidic, well-drained, rich soils; intolerant of alkaline soils
Water: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture

Wildlife: Attracts pollinators; deer resistant

Features & Landscape Uses:
Form: Compact, rounded evergreen shrub
Highly fragrant white flowers
Glossy foliage provides year-round interest
Excellent for foundation plantings, containers, and patios
Well-suited for southern gardens or protected sites

Maintenance:
Requires acidic soil; may need soil amendments in alkaline areas
Protect from cold winds and harsh winters
Prune after flowering to maintain shape
Mulch to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature

Plant type

Broadleaf Evergreen, Flowering Shrub

Height

2-3'

Width

2-3'

Hardiness zones

7–10

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Early Summer, Early Winter, Late Spring, Late Summer, Spring, Summer

Flower color

White

Leaf color

Dark Green

Fall color

Dark Green

Attracts

Butterflies

Soil

Acidic, Loamy, Well Drained

Landscape use

Border, Container, Mass Planting, Rock Garden

Shape

Compact, Rounded

Bark

Smooth

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No