The Gradient Tool allows you to apply and adjust gradient colours on all layers, including pixel layers, fill layers, adjustment layers, live filter layers, layer masks, as well as vector and text content.
Although you can use the Gradient Tool to apply solid colours, its true power lies in its ability to apply and modify linear, elliptical, radial, and conical gradients.
You can also apply bitmap fills, allowing you to add a bitmap image from an external source (like a pattern or texture) which can then be transformed.
The following settings can be adjusted from the context toolbar: