Rubiaceae
Guettarda speciosa
Beach Gardenia
T
Available in our catalogue
We propagate this species and you can order it from our catalogue.
View in catalogue →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.