What would the South East be without the Gardenia. Although the bloom and leaves are very much like smaller magnolias, the smell is much sweeter, more like vanilla, and without the lemony hints. They do fine in pots and bloom frequently (as long as the evenings are cool enough). I have one in a pot now that seems to be doing quite well.

	Our gardenia. It is blooming now and seems to be thriving. The smell is truly amazing. Image from our garden.
	The image from the last page. Image from the Time Life Plant Encyclopedia at the Virtual Garden.
	A drawing of the plant and bloom. Image from the Time Life Plant Encyclopedia at the Virtual Garden.