![Cape jasmine (Gardenia augusta).[Credits : A to Z Botanical Collection-EB Inc.]](http://media-2.web.britannica.com/eb-media/89/34789-003-FE755287.gif)
genus of ornamental shrubs and trees of the madder family (Rubiaceae), containing about 60 species native to tropical and subtropical Africa and Asia. Gardenias have white or yellow tubular flowers, evergreen leaves, and large, berrylike fruits containing a sticky, orange pulp.
Cape jasmine (G. augusta), native to China, is the fragrant species sold by florists.
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