Hyperacanthus amoenus (Thorny gardenia)

Hyperacanthus amoenus (Thorny gardenia) white flower with pink tips and small water droplets on petals

Botanical names: Hyperacanthus amoenus, Gardenia amoena

Common names: Thorny gardenia, Murombe, Bembethu

Family: Rubiaceae

Origin: South Africa

USDA Zone: 10-11

Plant form: Large bush or small tree

Mature height: 10-20 ft

Sun exposure: Full sun or bright light indoor

Cold tolerance: Frost sensitive. Protect from freezing.

Watering: Regular

Flower color: Pink; white and off-white

Suitable for: Outdoors in the suitable USDA zone; small gardens, containers, and indoor growing

Thorns: Thorny or spiny

Fragrance: Fragrant; perfume plant

Hyperacanthus amoenus is a large shrub or small tree native to South Africa, typically growing to 5-10 ft tall for a shrub and up to 10-20 ft for a tree. The glossy green leaves on the lateral branches are arranged in whorls of five and bordered by spines that are smaller than the leaves. Buds of the pinkish red flowers open up with white, off-white petals that are delightfully fragrant. After flowering, green fruits develop and become fleshy brown when ripe.

Hyperacanthus amoenus is quite easy to grow in full sun and regular watering. This species is suitable for growing in USDA Zones 10-11, and the mature plants can be tolerant of colder conditions, down to at least the 30s F for a short time. To ensure that the plant thrives in colder climates, it may be necessary to grow it in a pot in order to bring it indoors during the colder months. This will require extra care to make sure that it is given adequate water and light, and regular applications of fertilizer.