Convergence is the evolution of similar traits by adapting to the same environments or lifestyles. Meaning different species can look very similar to each other although they are not related, for example because they share similar pollinators.

Gardenia jasminoides has been cultivated in China for more than a thousand years. Humans have selected for a mutation in the genes that determine floral morphology. This mutated genes are responsible for the formation of an additional set of petals. The wild form of Gardenia jasminoides has just one set of petals. It shows the typical syndromes of hawkmoth pollination such as pale flowers, fused petals forming a long tube filled with nectar and a strong scent especially in the dark, just like Lonicera Japonica. Gardenia jasminoides belongs to the family of Rubiaceae while Lonicera japonica belongs to the family of Caprifoliaceae, so they are not closely related to each other. Their convergent evolution is also reflected in their floral headspace scents, they produce volatiles such as Linalool, Jasmine Lactone and Methyl Jasmonate to attract hawkmoths.

Example: Gardenia jasminoides, Lonicera japonica, Jasminum officinalis