Rubiaceae
Gardenia posoquerioides
Forest Gardenia · Chimwemwe
Shrub
22 small available right now.
About
This glabrous shrub or small tree typically reaches 2-6 metres, featuring oblong to ovate-oblong leaves. It produces striking solitary white flowers with long tubes, 9-15 cm, and broadly oblong lobes, which gracefully turn golden-yellow with age. The fruits are distinctive, large (4-6 cm), glabrous, and marked with six prominent corky ribs.
Where it works in Kilifi
Ideal for partial shade in a Kilifi-coast garden, this species thrives in well-draining, acidic soil enriched with organic matter. It makes an excellent specimen plant or can be integrated into a mixed indigenous planting, benefiting from a sheltered, humid environment.
Growing notes
This Gardenia prefers consistently moist, acidic soil; alkaline conditions can cause leaf yellowing. It requires high humidity and consistent warmth, as sudden cold or inconsistent watering can lead to bud drop. The plant is considered mildly toxic if ingested.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: zimbabweflora.co.zw, plantiary.com, kew.org, monrovia.com, gardenia.net, clemson.edu. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.