I do a bit of antique crochet, and this looks like a thistle pattern to me. These patterns are not usually based on a specific plant the way a painting might be; they tend to be more stylized. So don't worry about it being the exact "right" plant if it compliments what it looks like to you!

That's pretty. I'd be quite happy to have mine grow into something like that. By "toss them", I assumed it meant that they won't last outside in my zone- Northern NJ? I don't toss anyway. I have a Yucca (so id'd on the tropicals forum today) that was planted 2 seasons ago. Couldn't take inside, so I just overwintered. It didn't come back last year, and now- surprise- it lives! I was so happy to see it, and didn't believe it could be the Yucca, but it sure does look like it. I'll plant them and we'll see what happens. Thanks, all.Here's the possible Yucca:

Euphorbia tirucalli.

There is no distinctive odor with fresh tea Camellia leaves. I would treat it as a houseplant till you learn more. You may have to wait for it to bloom before you know with certainty. I would place it outdoors in partial shade once frost danger is over. It will certainly grow better outdoors during the warmer months. Tea blossoms are white with yellow centers and about an inch across. They are usually fragrant and typically bloom in fall. Bees find them irresistible.