Plant Profile: Gardenia jasminoides 'Crown Jewel' PP #19896

In the realm of horticulture, encountering a 'Crown Jewel' gardenia feels like a slice of paradise. This compact, cold-hardy dwarf variety is nothing short of stunning.

Originating from a dedicated breeding initiative in Siler City, North Carolina, the 'Crown Jewel' is a remarkable hybrid that merges the finest characteristics of its parent plants, 'Kleim's Hardy' and 'Chuck Hayes.' It inherits the petite stature and abundant blooms of 'Kleim's Hardy,' along with the cold resilience and double flowers of 'Chuck Hayes.' Notably, it can withstand winter conditions down to zone 6, which is quite impressive for gardenias.

The 'Crown Jewel' features lush, dark green evergreen leaves and reaches a modest height of 2 to 3 feet, spreading up to 5 feet wide. Its growth habit is mounding, adorned with white, highly fragrant flowers that bloom in the summer on both old and new growth. This variety is ideal for use as a low hedge, a foundation plant, or in groupings within sunny, well-drained locations.

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