Gardenia is a genus of bushy evergreen shrubs and trees in the Rubiaceae family. These plants originate from Africa, Asia, Madagascar and the Pacific islands where they inhabit tropical and subtropical regions. There are 134 species and they are characterised by their glossy dark green leaves and large, scented white bowl-shaped flowers. Some are cultivated as garden plants in mild climates where they grow best in partial or dappled shade. They can also be grown as houseplants in cooler areas.