Larsenaikia ochreata

Native Gardenia

Rubiaceae 

Form and Size: A medium to tall shrub, 2-5m high; may be deciduous in the dry season. 

Distribution: North-eastern Qld; in open forests and along stream banks.

Leaves:  Broadly egg-shaped, blunt, thin-textured, dark green, hairy beneath, veins prominent, 8-12cm x 6-8cm; new growth softly hairy.

Bark: Dark, hard.

Flowers: White, perfumed. 6-9cm diameter; borne in small terminal groups. 

Flowering Period: September to November.

Fruit: Egg-shaped, hairy, calyx prominent, 3-3.5cm x 1.5-2cm.

Cultivation/Notes:  Propagate from fresh seed or cuttings. A hardy plant found both on the coast and inland. It is suitable for dry areas as well as along the coast. Regular pruning will assist in maintaining a bushy shape. Previously known as Gardenia ochreata.