Native to the tropics and sub-tropics of the Old World, Gardenia jasminoides, was a popular greenhouse plant in the mid-nineteenth century. Linnaeus named the genus Gardenia for Alexander Garden in recognition of his contributions to botany. Thomas Jefferson requested in a letter dated August 9, 1788, to J. Banister, Jr. that "Gardenia" be sent, along with several other plants, to his friend Madame Tessé in France.

Visit Monticello’s Online Shop to check for seeds or plants of Cape Jasmine.

Typical Blooming Dates: May-July
Blossom Color(s): White
Location at Monticello: East Lawn