Gardenia jasminoides 'Kleim’s Hardy'
This dwarf selection of Gardenia jasminoides is valued for compact habit and cold tolerance. It carries single star‑shaped white flowers with golden stamens. It performs well in containers and small beds. It prefers morning sun and light afternoon shade in hot summers. It tolerates brief cold to about 10 °F when established in a sheltered site. It needs acidic, well‑drained soil to avoid chlorosis.
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: Dwarf evergreen shrub
- Height × spread: 2 to 3 ft × 2 to 3 ft (0.6 to 0.9 m × 0.6 to 0.9 m)
- Bloom window: late spring with a smaller fall flush
- Color & flower form: white; single star; up to 2 in across
- Fragrance: 3 strong
- USDA hardiness: zones 7 to 11 (site dependent)
- Breeder / Year / Origin: unknown
- Cut‑flower notes: Typical vase life is 2 to 4 days for individual blooms handled cool and clean.
- Pet safety: avoid
How it differs
- Smaller size than a typical gardenia.
- Single star flowers instead of double forms.
- Better cold tolerance for zone 7 sites.
- Good container performance.
Strengths
- Compact habit for tight spaces.
- Fragrant display near paths and entries.
- Handles brief cold better than many cultivars.
Care in one minute
- Provide morning sun and afternoon shade in hot regions.
- Use acidic soil with good drainage and organic mulch.
- Irrigate regularly to keep soil evenly moist.
- Feed lightly with acid‑forming fertilizer in spring and again six weeks later.
- Prune after flowering to keep a rounded mound.
- Shelter from winter winds in zone 7.
Watch‑outs
- Chlorosis on alkaline or limed soils.
- Whiteflies, scale, and sooty mold in humid weather.
- Bud drop with inconsistent watering.
Best uses (tags)
containers, edging, walkways, small spaces, entryways
Provenance note
Documented by NC State Extension as compact and hardy; Clemson notes hardiness to about 10 °F.
References
- NC State Extension Plant Toolbox: Gardenia jasminoides ‘Kleim’s Hardy’
- Clemson Cooperative Extension HGIC 1065: Gardenia
- ASPCA. Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants: Gardenia jasminoides
Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
We are a small independent group of flower lovers who research and review each guide using trusted horticultural and educational sources. Learn more about us