DAPHNE

Commonly known as Garland flower

Daphnes require good, rich, loamy soil and good drainage is essential for success.

Genus of about 100 species of deciduous, semi-evergreen or evergreen shrubs from Europe, northern Africa and temperate and subtropical Asia.

Their main attraction is the clusters of usually heavily scented flowers. Some have variegated leaves. They can be grown in borders, rock gardens and in a woodland setting.

The "Eternal" series are a result of a successful 30 year breeding programme to produce a free-flowering Daphne more tolerant of a wide range of soil and garden conditions.

All are attractive to bees and other insects, the earlier bloomers being particularly useful.

D. mezereum, Mezereon, is the native. Found in woods on calcareous soils is very rare.

Full Plant Details - Sun/Soil & other attributes

Good to know
All daphnes resent transplanting. Attractive to bees and other insects.
Pests & Diseases
Aphids, leaf spot, grey mould, viruses.
Place of origin
Central and southern Europe.
Evergreen
Smooth leaves 1-2cm (½-¾in) long.
Shades of pink
All shades of pink through to Carmine (red)

Rose pink to white
Rockery (inc alpine)
Suitable for small gardens
Fully hardy
Entire
Lanceolate
Height
15cm (6in)
Spread
2m (6½ft)
Dwarf shrub
Typically only grows to a maximum of one or two feet in height but there will be some exceptions.

Low-growing shrub with trailing, branching stems. Flowers in dense, terminal clusters of 6-20, to 1cm (½in) across.
Pruning group 1
Suitable for: Deciduous and evergreen trees, and some deciduous shrubs.
Pruning: Minimal pruning required. Prune wayward or crossing branches to maintain a healthy framework.
When: When dormant in the late winter/early spring. Some in the summer/autumn to prevent bleeding of sap.
Pruning group 5
Suitable for: Evergreen shrubs that require minimal pruning.
Action: Trim or lightly cut back shoots that spoil symmetry. Deadhead regularly.
When: Annually after flowering.
Hardy - cold winter
Hardy in most places throughout the UK even in severe winters. May not withstand open/exposed sites or central/northern locations. Plant can withstand temperatures down to -15°C (5°F)
Scented flowers
Spring Seasonal Interest
Fertile well drained soil
Humus rich but not dry - mulch to keep roots cool.
Neutral soil preferred
Or slightly alkaline to slightly acidic
Full sun
Partial shade
Bee friendly

View Planting Tips and Care Advice

Cold weather damage to evergreen plants

What do with cold weather damage

Daphne - Care Guide

More Care Guides & Tips

Search Caerhays Garden Diary for more info & pictures

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