Gardenia

Gardenia is a traditional flowering plant in Chinese culture. Its name comes from the ancient belief that the shape of its fruit resembles an old-fashioned wine cup, known as “zhi” (卮).

While gardenias are admired for their pure white petals, their most unforgettable feature is their unique fragrance — a soft, natural scent that simply can’t be replicated by artificial means. Gardenias thrive in warm, humid climates but dislike waterlogging. They love sunlight, but harsh direct rays can harm them, so they should be kept away from strong exposure.

Gardenias are rich in symbolic meanings. In many places, they represent kindness and purity, thanks to their white blossoms and gentle fragrance — qualities often associated with a sweet and innocent girl. That’s why gardenias are often used to symbolise a kind-hearted, lovely person.

They also stand for strength and bravery, as the plant itself is very resilient and can grow well in various conditions. Because of this, gardenias are often given when visiting someone in hospital — a gesture of encouragement and hope.

As an evergreen shrub, the gardenia’s leaves stay green all year round, even through winter. This lasting vibrance makes the gardenia a symbol of vitality and evergreen life — a plant that never fades with the seasons.

Finally, gardenias also carry the meaning of waiting. Their flower buds start to form in winter but don’t bloom until summer, making them a quiet symbol of patience and devotion. This waiting can also be seen as a metaphor for faithfully waiting for love.