I have noticed that there are 2 types of Gardenia Radicans - Gardenia Augusta Radicans and Gardenia Jasminoides Radicans.

Can anyone tell me the differences between the two and which would be better suited as a hedge?

Also, how far apart shoulf we plant the Gardenias for hedging?

Thanks in advance!

Ok - this is a great question, and I'll be interested to see others' feedback. My problem is that I continually get the two mixed up, but one has small leaves and the other has a noticeably larger leaf. Although I *believe* that the smaller-leaved variety (Jasminoides, I think) has a reputation as a 'waterwise' plant, I prefer the Augusta variety, both in terms of its foliage and the way it has stood up to the elements in my garden. As I have both planted side-by-side, in competition with tree ferns/poinciana roots/palms/mondo grass and a horde of lillipillies, I believe that I'm in a position to compare the two : your mileage may differ. I'll often visit their patch to find the Jasminoides wilted and unhappy whilst the Radicans looks the exact opposite.

Soil - clay, with significant root competition
Aspect - morning sun, filtered light through the day
Conditions - everything from zero deg Winters to 40 deg Summers, hot/dry winds and irregular downpours

Good luck,

Artie

I believe that you are correct, and the industry has taken to mixing and matching the names. My 'Radicans' label indicates that the plant will grow to at least a metre in height, and the word 'dwarf' doesnt appear anywhere.

Cheers,

Artie

Thanks so much for your help!

What we are after is a Gardenia that we can grow to about 30-40cm high that will remain nice and bushy at that height (and not get straggly) that we can have as an informal hedge around our fenceline, about 23 metres long. It will be the only plant in that area and won't have compettion from anything other than the occasional weed. I looked at the "groundcover" variety at a large nursery on Sunday. It only went by the name "Gardenia radicans" no Augusta or Jasminoides and the nursery person knew less than I did about the plants (seriously, she had to read the back of the tag to tell me about the plant...I had already done that...duh!).

Can anyone recommend any other Gardenia to suit my purpose or would I be best sticking to a Radicans that grows to about 40cms high?