The Tahitian gardenia (Gardenia taitensis) is an evergreen, flowering, tropical shrub indigenous to Melanesia and Polynesia. It is the national flower of the Polynesian island country of Tahiti, where its flowers are utilized to concoct a perfumed coconut oil used for cosmetic purposes. These fragrant blossoms are also traditionally used in the Pacific to make leis, or flower necklaces. Local Tahitian custom dictates that a gardenia blossom behind the left ear indicates being in a relationship, while one behind the right ear announces being single.
