DAPHNE
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DAPHNE
Commonly known as Winter daphne
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
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Good to know
All daphnes resent transplanting. Attractive to bees and other insects -
Pests & Diseases
Aphids, leaf spot, grey mould(Botrytis), viruses -
Place of origin
China, Japan -
Evergreenleathery, glossy leaves to 8cm (3in) long
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Shades of pink
All shades of pink through to Carmine (red) -
Tubular
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BorderSuitable for a shrub border
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Cottage garden
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Town garden
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Fully hardyBorderline
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Entire
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Oblanceolate
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Height
1.5m (5ft) -
Spread
1.5m (5ft)
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Medium shrubTypically grow to around 4-6 feet in heightRounded shrub. Flowers, 1.5cm (½in) across in terminal or axillary clusters of 10-15 or more.
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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.
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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.
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Hardy - average winter
Hardy through most of the UK apart from inland valleys, at altitude and central/northerly locations. May suffer foliage damage and stem dieback in harsh winters in cold gardens. Plant can withstand temperatures down to -10°C (14°F)Borderline -
Scented flowersVery fragrant
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Autumn Seasonal Interest
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Spring Seasonal Interest
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Summer Seasonal Interest
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Winter Seasonal Interest
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Fertile well drained soilHumus-rich but not dry. Mulch to keep roots cool
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Neutral to acid soil
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Neutral to alkaline soil
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Full sun
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Partial shade
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skin irritant
People and pets, i.e. cats, dogs, rabbits, rodents -
toxic if eaten
People and pets, i.e. cats, dogs, rabbits, rodents
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Bee friendly
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Rabbit Resistant
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Mature Size1.5m (5ft)
1.5m (5ft)
View Planting Tips and Care Advice
Cold weather damage to evergreen plants
Daphne - Care Guide
View Planting Combinations
