GARDENIA JASMINOIDES: A Traditional Chinese Dye Plant Becomes A Garden Ornamental in Europe

摘要

Gardenia jasminoides J. Ellis, a plant native to southern China, was introduced into Britain in the mid-18th century in its sterile double-flowered form. It quickly became a horticultural sensation because of its large white jasmine-like flowers and scent. At first, understanding the taxonomic placement of the species was inhibited by the lack of fertile flowers, but eventually the species was understood to be very different from a true jasmine. Interest in this plant in the mid-18th century was not confined to its use as an ornamental, but also focused on the potential use of its seeds as the source of a yellow-scarlet dye.