Greeting Card - Gardenia on Black

This stunning bloom is the Cape Jasmine Gardenia. There are a number of different gardenia varieties. This one is distinctive for the initial unfurling of the (usually six) outer petals, followed by a rose-like interior bloom. Gardenias have a wonderful, faintly spicy fragrance that makes it a popular choice for perfume makers. Thought to be named after Alexander Garden, a Charleston, South Carolina, physician, gardenias have also come to be associated with the South. Once quite popular in wedding bouquets, the flower is now infrequently used in bouquets because of their sensitive nature. You have to be very careful with the care and handling of these blooms. If the bloom is handled too much the petals will turn black. This spectacular bloom is offered here on a black backdrop for a truly striking design. You are, however, welcome to change the background colour to better suit your personality or personal sense of style. Though you could use it for any occasion, this elegant design is particularly appropriate for sympathy and condolences. The interior of the card has been left blank and awaits your thoughts.