A wonderful flowering evergreen hedge or foundation plant for dappled sun or shade areas. Frostproof is a reblooming Gardenia with dark green foliage and large, fragrant, white flowers that measure two to three inches wide. Some Gardenia's have a smaller, rounder leaf but Frostproof has leaves that are more narrow and pointed - softer looking. Growing Habit: A more upright habit and more tolerant of direct sun exposure than other gardenias, with flower buds that resist late spring frosts without damage. Frostproof is zoned 7-11 and slowly reaches 5 ft. tall, 4 ft. wide. Gardenia's do not like to be significantly dry so we suggest watering when they are about 25% dry. Plant in well drained, rich soil and fertilize after blooming in the spring. Sometimes during late growing season, gardenia's can get several yellow leaves. A normal amount of shedding is reasonable - not to worry unless it becomes significant. Care: Gardenia's like moist, well drained soil but not soggy. Here in Chattanooga, our hardiness zone has been changed from 7 to 8 by the Dept of Agriculture but we should remain careful with Gardenias since they can get damaged by cold temperatures. Toxicity: Gardenia's are deer tolerant but also the flower contains toxins that cause gastrointestinal upset in many animals, including dogs, horses, and cats. The severity of the symptoms will depend on how much of the plant was consumed. If a cat has been exposed to the gardenia plant, he may begin to exhibit vomiting.
