You can apply a gradient to the fill and stroke of a cell, but the results might not be what you’d expect (see Figure 6-34).
Figure 6.34 Applying a Gradient to a Cell
Note that the gradient is based on the width and height of the table, rather than on the selected cell or cells. This may or may not give you the effect you’re looking for. To gain more control over the start/end points of the gradient, create and fill a rectangle, then paste the rectangle into the cell.