Keep the root zone evenly moist but never waterlogged. Check containers daily during extreme heat; water when the surface begins to dry. Reduce watering in winter and use rainwater or low-alkalinity water when available.
Size
4-6 ft tall × 3-4 ft wide
Habit
Upright tree – multi-trunk
Toxicity
Toxic — Pets
Description
An evergreen gardenia trained into a small tree with braided stems, glossy foliage, and intensely fragrant white flowers. Requires special care in Phoenix’s heat, dry air, and alkaline conditions.
Asparagus fern, Irrigated settings, Mondo grass, Shaded
Toxic — Pets
Toxic to pets (mild GI upset)
Care Instructions
Light: Bright filtered light or gentle early-morning sun; protect from midday and afternoon sun, reflected heat, and hot winds.
Water: Keep the root zone evenly moist but never waterlogged. Check containers daily during extreme heat; water when the surface begins to dry. Reduce watering in winter and use rainwater or low-alkalinity water when available.
Soil: Rich, acidic, well-drained soil with a pH of about 5.0–6.0. An acidic potting mix in a well-drained container is usually more practical than Phoenix’s alkaline native soil.
Mature size: Typically maintained at 3–6 feet tall and 2–4 feet wide in containers; ultimate size varies with cultivar, training, and pruning.
Bloom: Main bloom season is spring through early summer; some cultivars repeat into fall. Extreme heat and moisture stress can reduce flowering.
Evergreen / deciduous: Evergreen.
Growth rate: Slow to moderate; slower under Phoenix heat or alkaline-soil stress.