Copyright Kenn Shapiro, all rights reserved. May not be used, sold, or reproduced without written permission.
On July 29, 2013—fully four months after the gardenia bush on my front walk had yielded its annual crop of dozens of blooms—this solitary flower emerged. Late, yes—but none the worse for wear. Higher resolution versions of this photo can be viewed at 500px.com.
Fresh PhotoPic 
Lovely, I swear I can smell it!
What a kind and flattering comment! Thank you, Eliza!
The Gardenia is my favorite. But, I can never please it in my garden because the soil is alkaline. I do wish I could grow one here in Texas. This blossom is wonderful. I love the thickness of the petals. It always delights me when I find a solitary blossom late in the season. I have no been getting notices of your posts. I will unfollow and follow again. If you don’t see my comment on your next post, please let me know. Thanks! 🙂
Will do, George–and thank you for the comment and the heads up!
What a wonderful gift!
Thank you! I agree–it was an unexpected treat!
Gardenias are one of my favorite flowers, and what a beauty this one is, Kenn!
Looks like this plant definitely saved the best for last.
I wish you a wonderful day.
Thank you, Lisa. The bush that produced that flower is 17 years old. I do nothing to it, yet it thrives.