Rubiaceae
Gardenia ternifolia subsp. jovis-tonantis
Large-leaved Transvaal gardenia
T
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
This indigenous tree typically grows as a small tree or shrub, reaching up to 7 metres tall, and features grayish-white bark. Its leaves are arranged in whorls of three, are rough to the touch, and exhibit distinctive hair-tuft domatia on their undersides. The plant produces solitary, sweetly scented white flowers that gradually turn yellow as they mature, followed by velvety, yellowish-brown, ovoid fruits.
Where it works in Kilifi
Native to tropical Africa, including Kenya, this species is well-suited for Kilifi-coast gardens. It thrives in locations with full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained soil, making it an excellent choice as a specimen tree, for natural shade, or within restoration projects in grassland and bushland areas.
Growing notes
A moderately growing species, this gardenia is known to be drought-tolerant once established, thriving in seasonally dry tropical biomes. While gardenias can generally be sensitive to high salt, this particular species' native range includes coastal regions of Africa, indicating a degree of adaptability to such conditions.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: zambiaflora.com, seedsandall.co.za, malawiflora.com, sanbi.org, theferns.info, worldagroforestry.org. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.