First Love Gardenia
Gardenia jasminoides 'Aimee'Gardenia ‘First Love’ is a captivating evergreen shrub celebrated for its abundant, creamy-white, fragrant blooms and lustrous dark green foliage. Blooming in late spring through summer, the flowers exude the classic, intoxicating gardenia scent, creating a delightful atmosphere in any garden. Its compact yet full growth habit makes it ideal for smaller landscapes, containers, or as an accent plant along pathways, patios, and foundation plantings.
The glossy foliage of ‘First Love’ remains evergreen year-round, providing structure and elegance even when flowers are not present. This variety combines the classic beauty and fragrance of traditional gardenias with a manageable size, making it perfect for gardeners who desire high-impact blooms without overwhelming space. ‘First Love’ also attracts pollinators, enhancing your garden’s biodiversity while offering a stunning visual and aromatic display.
Care Instructions:
Planting: Plant in partial shade to full sun, avoiding harsh afternoon sun. Choose well-drained, acidic soil and a protected location from strong winds.
Watering: Maintain consistently moist soil, particularly during warm months. Avoid waterlogging to protect roots.
Pruning: Lightly prune after flowering to shape the plant and remove dead or crossing branches. Avoid heavy pruning late in the season.
Pest Control: Monitor for aphids, scale, spider mites, and whiteflies. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Soil Tips: Requires acidic soil (pH 5.0–6.0). Amend with peat moss, compost, or pine fines to maintain acidity and improve drainage.
