Rubiaceae

Guettarda speciosa

Beach Gardenia

Small/Medium Tree

Common speciesNotes pending review

Size

Quantity

Not currently in stock. We can propagate or source this species — add to your order and we'll confirm timeline and availability.

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About

This attractive small to medium tree is prized for its large, glossy green leaves and clusters of highly fragrant white flowers. The elegant, star-shaped blossoms release their sweet perfume primarily at night, adding a captivating dimension to any garden.

Where it works in Kilifi

Perfect as a fragrant specimen or accent plant, it thrives in full sun to light shade and adapts well to the sandy, well-drained soils typical of the Kilifi coast. Its moderate size makes it suitable for smaller gardens, providing a touch of tropical elegance near patios or windows to enjoy its nocturnal perfume.

Growing notes

It exhibits a moderate growth rate and, once established, is relatively drought-tolerant, though it benefits from occasional deep watering during dry spells. Highly tolerant of salt spray, it is a robust choice for coastal planting and requires minimal pruning to maintain its attractive shape.

Sources

Drafted from: Gemini 2.5 Flash. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.