The Differences Between Gardenia Varieties: Magnifica, Radicans, and Florida

Gardenias are known for their stunning white, fragrant flowers and glossy green foliage, making them a popular choice in many Australian gardens. Among the different varieties of Gardenia, Magnifica, Radicans, and Florida are some of the most sought after for their distinct characteristics. Whether you’re creating a fragrant hedge, a ground cover, or a statement shrub, each variety offers unique qualities that suit different gardening needs.

Let’s explore the differences between these beautiful Gardenia varieties and why you might choose one over the other.

Gardenia 'Magnifica': The Larger Statement Shrub

Gardenia ‘Magnifica’ lives up to its name, producing large, highly fragrant blooms and growing into a more substantial shrub compared to other Gardenia varieties. If you’re looking for a statement plant or a larger hedge, Magnifica is an excellent choice.

The Magnifica variety boasts large, creamy-white flowers and dense foliage, making it perfect for those who want a bold, fragrant feature in their garden. Its height and fullness also make it a great choice for low hedging or as a border plant. With moderate growth, it’s manageable but still fast enough to fill out within a few growing seasons.

  • Mature Height

    1.5m-2m tall

  • Recommended Spacing

    50cm-80cm apart

  • Ideal Growing Conditions

    Full sun to part shade

  • Growth Rate

    Moderate

Gardenia 'Radicans': The Ground Cover Option

If you’re looking for a low-growing ground cover or a plant for cascading over walls and pots, Gardenia ‘Radicans’ is the way to go. This variety has a dwarf growth habit, spreading wider than it grows tall, and is ideal for adding a soft, fragrant carpet of green to your garden.

Radicans produces the same signature white, fragrant flowers as other Gardenias but in a much smaller package. It’s perfect for planting along paths, as a border for garden beds, or even in pots. Its moderate growth rate makes it easy to maintain, while its spread offers a lush ground cover that remains fragrant throughout the growing season.

  • Mature Size

    40-60cm Tall x 1m-1.2m Wide

  • Recommended Spacing

    50cm-1m apart

  • Ideal Growing Conditions

    Full sun to part shade

  • Growth Rate

    Moderate

Gardenia 'Florida': The Compact Hedge Choice

For gardeners looking to create a compact hedge or smaller shrub, Gardenia ‘Florida’ is an ideal option. With its manageable size and rounded growth habit, Florida is great for hedging or as a standalone feature in smaller spaces.

Florida is beloved for its compact growth and profusion of small, fragrant blooms. It’s a versatile plant, ideal for creating low hedges or using as a feature shrub in garden beds. Its compact size makes it easier to control and perfect for small garden spaces or container gardening. Plant them closely together for a thick, fragrant hedge that will bloom in spring and summer.

  • Mature Size

    1m-1.2m tall/wide

  • Recommended Spacing for Hedging

    50cm apart

  • Ideal Growing Conditions

    Full sun to part shade

  • Growth Rate

    Moderate

Notable Mention: Native Gardenia (Atractocarpus fitzalanii)

While often called the Native Gardenia, the Atractocarpus fitzalanii (formerly known as Randia fitzalanii) isn’t actually part of the Gardenia family. However, it’s worth mentioning due to its fragrant, white flowers that resemble traditional Gardenias and its ability to thrive in Australian gardens.

For a more in depth guide and information on the Native Garden, see this article here

The Native Gardenia grows into a large, elegant tree that can be used as a tall screen or feature tree in gardens. It’s perfect for those wanting a taller plant with a similar appeal to Gardenias, especially in tropical or subtropical climates. With fragrant flowers and a moderate growth rate, it’s a great choice for creating shade and a tropical feel in your garden.

  • Mature Height

    4m-6m+ tall x 2m-4m wide depending on climate

  • Recommended Spacing for Hedging

    1.5m-3m apart

  • Ideal Growing Conditions

    Full sun to part shade

  • Growth Rate

    Moderate

How to Choose the Right Gardenia Variety for Your Garden

  • For a larger shrub or hedge, choose Gardenia ‘Magnifica’. Its height and substantial flowers make it a standout feature in any garden.

  • For a low-growing ground cover, Gardenia ‘Radicans’ is ideal. It spreads wide and stays compact, making it perfect for borders or filling in garden beds.

  • For a compact, versatile hedge or small feature shrub, Gardenia ‘Florida’ is the perfect choice. Its manageable size and rounded growth habit are ideal for smaller spaces.

  • For a tall, fragrant feature tree, consider the Native Gardenia. While not a true Gardenia, its elegant shape and tropical flowers make it a beautiful addition to larger gardens.


Find Your Perfect Gardenia at Platypus Plants

At Platypus Plants, we offer a wide range of Gardenia varieties, including Magnifica, Radicans, and Florida, perfect for your next garden project. Whether you’re creating a hedge, adding ground cover, or simply looking for a beautiful feature plant, we have the ideal Gardenia for you.

We also stock the stunning Native Gardenia (Atractocarpus fitzalanii), ready for delivery to Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast, and South East Queensland.

Visit our online store and have your Gardenia plants delivered right to your door, so you can enjoy the beauty and fragrance of these wonderful plants in your own garden.