Summer Snow® Gardenia

Gerdenia jasminoides 'Bab1183' PP22797

Plants that Work®

Reliably Rebloom All Summer Long with Fragrant Creamy White Flowers
Heat Tolerant: Thrives in Zones 6-10
Grows 4-5 ft Tall and Wide
Sweetly Fragrant Flowers
Pollinator-Friendly Shrub

$35⁶⁶

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Planting & Care

Where to Plant

Sunlight: For the best flower production, provide at least 6 to 8 hours of direct morning sun. While Summer Snow® can handle afternoon shade in hotter climates, too much shade results in fewer blooms and a less dense canopy of foliage.
Soil: These plants crave acidic, organic soil that drains well but stays moist. If you have heavy clay, mix in organic compost or plant in a raised bed to prevent "wet feet" which can lead to root rot.

Watering Requirements

During the first growing season, water deeply two to three times a week to help the roots knit into the surrounding soil. Once established, this gardenia is more drought-tolerant than older varieties, but inconsistent moisture during bud set will cause the flowers to drop before they open. Aim for a consistent "wrung out sponge" level of moisture to keep the glossy leaves from wilting.

Pruning Tips

Summer Snow® blooms on "old wood," meaning the flower buds for next year are set shortly after the current flowers fade. To avoid cutting off next year's display, prune immediately after the final summer bloom by thinning out crowded branches to improve air circulation. Think of this like a light haircut to maintain shape and remove any winter damaged tips, which encourages fresh growth and more budding sites.

Fertilizer Needs

Apply a slow-release fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants, such as an azalea or camellia food, once in early spring and again in mid-summer. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers after August, as this forces tender new growth that won't have time to harden off before the first frost. This ensures the plant enters dormancy safely without the risk of winter kill on soft stems.

Delivery and Shipping

Shipping Rates

Ships in 7-10 business days • Tracking provided • Weather protected

Under $50	$9.99
$50 - $99.99	$14.99
$100 - $149.99	$16.99
$150 - $198.99	$24.99
$199+	FREE

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Summer Snow® Gardenia – Fragrant Reblooming Evergreen

The Summer Snow® Gardenia PP#22797 (Gardenia jasminoides 'Bab1183') is an exceptional broadleaf evergreen shrub renowned for its prolific, fragrant, creamy white blooms that repeat all summer long! This reblooming cultivar is a compact variety, perfect for smaller spaces where its heady, jasmine-like perfume can be appreciated up close.

As one of the few Gardenias that reliably rebloom, Summer Snow® brings waves of floral beauty from late spring to fall, adding elegance and fragrance to any garden nook!

This Gardenia's form is tight and rounded, typically growing 2-3 feet tall and wide. Its lustrous, deep green leaves are leathery and evergreen, creating a rich, glossy backdrop that highlights the pure white flowers beautifully. The foliage remains attractive year-round, and though the blooms fade to a buttery cream, they retain their perfume and charm!

Key Features

Strong fragrance with classic jasmine scent
Reblooming all summer long into fall
Compact, rounded shape (4 to 5 ft tall/wide)
Glossy, broadleafevergreen foliage
Cold-hardy and disease-resistant hybrid
Ideal for containers, walkways, patios
Great in warmer climates (zones 6-10)

Landscaping Uses

The Summer Snow® Gardenia is a petite powerhouse, growing just 4 to 5 feet tall and wide with a symmetrical, rounded habit.

Native to warm, humid regions of East Asia, Gardenias have long been cultivated for their fragrance and symbolic purity. Unlike some larger Gardenia species, Summer Snow® has a tidy natural form ideal for patios, containers, and foundation plantings!

Summer Snow® thrives in USDA growing zones 6-10 and is known for its improved cold hardiness and disease resistance. In the language of flowers, Gardenias signify secret love, elegance, and refinement.

Line garden borders with fragrant charm or add a glossy year-round backdrop
Grow in containers on patios or balconies
Add to foundation plantings or entryway beds
Use as a fragrant hedge or in front of taller shrubs and evergreens
Tuck into mixed perennial beds for evergreen structure
Create a Sensory Garden with fragrant companions

Care and Maintenance

This is a broadleaf evergreen shrub with improved reblooming and cold-tolerant genetics, perfect for humid southern zones or protected spots in cooler areas. Read more on making Gardenias work for you in our Garden Blog!

Planting Time: Spring or fall, when soil is warm
Sun Needs: Full sun to part shade (needs afternoon shade in hot climates)
Soil Needs: Prefers acidic, well-drained soil. Amend clay and avoid alkaline soils
Moisture Needs: Keep evenly moist but not soggy—does not like wet feet
Mulch/Arborist Mulch: Apply a 3-4 inch deep layer of bark mulch to conserve moisture and insulate roots
Fertilization Needs: Use a fertilizer for acid-loving plants in early spring and midsummer
Pruning Info: Light pruning after first bloom wave; blooms on current season's growth
Special Needs/Perks:

Deer and rabbit-resistant
Heat and humidity tolerant
Great for coastal gardens (moderate salt tolerance)
Pest and disease-resistant hybrid
Protect from harsh winter winds in zones 6 to 7

Fragrant Snow All Summer

This improved hybrid was bred for better reblooming and hardiness, making it a more forgiving Gardenia for gardeners seeking a no-fuss shrub with high style. Let your garden bask in waves of sweet, fragrant 'snow' from late spring to frost with Summer Snow® Gardenia bushes! With elegant form, rich evergreen foliage, and reblooming white blooms, this petite shrub offers big impact in a small package. You’ll want one near a window, a walkway, or your favorite garden bench.

Buy now and Nature Hills will ship at the appropriate planting time for your growing zone.

Botanical Name

Gerdenia jasminoides 'Bab1183' PP22797
Class

Magnoliopsida, Magnoliidae
Species

jasminoides
Cultivar

Bab1183
Growing Zones

6-10
Height

4-5 ft
Width

4-5 ft
Sunlight

Full sun, Partial shade
Growth Rate

Moderate
Flower Color

White
Leaf Color

Green
Fall Color

Evergreen
Fragrant

Yes
Bloom Period

Early Summer, Late Summer, Early Fall, Late Fall
Does Not Ship To

AK, HI, ID, MT, PR

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Growing Zones 6-10

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Frequently Asked Questions

What USDA hardiness zones is Summer Snow® Gardenia rated for?

Summer Snow® Gardenia is hardy in USDA zones 6-10. This cultivar offers improved cold hardiness compared to traditional gardenias, making it suitable for a wider range of climates. Choose a protected location in zone 6 for best winter survival.

What is the mature size of Summer Snow® Gardenia at full growth?

Summer Snow® Gardenia reaches 4-5 feet tall and wide at maturity, forming a compact, rounded shape. This makes it perfect for smaller spaces, containers, and foundation plantings in zones 6-10. Shop at Nature Hills for this space-efficient reblooming variety.

How often should I water Summer Snow® Gardenia, and can the soil dry out?

Gardenias need consistently moist, well-draining soil and should never dry out completely. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically 1-2 times per week in zones 6-10. Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged to prevent root rot.

What fertilizer is best for Summer Snow® Gardenia, and when to apply it?

Use an acid-loving plant fertilizer with higher nitrogen in early spring, then switch to a balanced fertilizer through summer to support continuous blooming. Feed monthly during the growing season in zones 6-10. Stop fertilizing 6-8 weeks before your first expected frost.

When and how should I prune Summer Snow® Gardenia after flowering?

Prune Summer Snow® Gardenia lightly in late fall after the final blooming cycle ends. Since this reblooming variety flowers repeatedly from late spring through fall, avoid heavy pruning during the growing season. Simply deadhead spent blooms and shape as needed to maintain its compact 4-5 foot form.

Why do gardenia leaves turn yellow, and how to fix chlorosis in Summer Snow®?

Gardenia leaves turn yellow due to iron deficiency (chlorosis), typically caused by alkaline soil that prevents iron uptake. Summer Snow® Gardenias need acidic soil with a pH between 5.0-6.0 to absorb nutrients properly. Apply iron sulfate or acidic fertilizer designed for acid-loving plants, and mulch with pine needles to maintain soil acidity.

What are common pests and diseases for Summer Snow® Gardenia, like whiteflies or mildew?

Summer Snow® Gardenia is bred for improved disease resistance compared to older varieties. Common issues include aphids, whiteflies, and occasional powdery mildew in humid conditions. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal problems.