Steady as She Goes® Gardenia

Botanical Name: Gardenia jasminoides ‘Steady As She Goes’

Common Name: Steady As She Goes Gardenia

Mature Height and Width:
3–5' tall × 3–5' wide

Growth Habit:
Dense, rounded evergreen shrub with sturdy upright branching and uniform structure. Forms a balanced mound with moderate interior density. More cold tolerant than many traditional gardenia cultivars.

Foliage Description:
Glossy dark green elliptic leaves with thick leathery texture. New growth slightly lighter green before maturing. Foliage maintains consistent color through growing season. Evergreen in Zones 7–9 (protected Zone 7 recommended).

Flower Description:
Single to semi-single white flowers 2–3" wide with visible golden stamens. Petals broad and slightly cupped rather than tightly layered. Blooms are fragrant and distributed evenly across canopy.

Bloom Time:
Late spring through early summer with potential light rebloom.

Fall Color:
Evergreen; no fall color.

Light Requirements:
Full sun to partial shade. Best bloom density with morning sun and afternoon protection in hotter sites.

Hardiness Zone:
USDA Zones 7–10 (improved cold tolerance compared to older varieties).

Notable Landscape Uses:
Foundation planting; low hedge; fragrant garden; mass planting in protected beds; container use in colder zones; courtyard accent.

Deer Resistance:
Moderate to High
Established plants are generally avoided; occasional browsing may occur on tender new growth under pressure.