Gardenia are medium-sized, broad-leaf evergreen shrubs native to Japan, Taiwan and China. There are more than 200 different species in the genus Gardenia. Common gardenia (Gardenia jasminoides) is the most widely cultivated. Their shiny, dark green leaves and bushy habit provide year-round interest in the home landscape. From early summer to late in the fall, gardenias produce fragrant flowers. The roselike blooms are large, waxy and creamy-colored with a pungent, sweet scent.