How to Grow and Care for Winter daphne

Winter daphne, also known as Fragrant daphne, Gold-edged winter daphne

Winter daphne is known for its fragrant flowers and attractive foliage, but it comes with certain care requirements. Ideal conditions for winter daphne include well-draining soil and protection from afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch. Additionally, winter daphne requires vigilant avoidance of waterlogged conditions to prevent root rot, which can be a common issue. With a susceptibility to pests and diseases, as well as specific watering and light needs, winter daphne is considered difficult to care for.

Watering schedule: Every 1-2 weeks

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun

Toxic to Humans

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Planting and Growing Winter daphne

Toughness	High
Care Level	Low
Care Difficulty	Hard
Lifespan	Perennial
Watering Schedule	Every 1-2 weeks
Sunlight Requirements	Partial sun
Soil Type	Garden Soil
Soil pH	5.5-6.5
Planting Time	Spring, Fall
Hardiness Zones	7-9
Toxicity	Toxic to Humans

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Varieties of Winter daphne

Winter daphne 'Aureomarginata'

The edges, or margins, of winter daphne 'Aureomarginata' leaves are a delicate yellow. This evergreen plant is a cultivar of Daphne odora, and is distinguished by its variegated leaves, from which it derives its name. This contrast is also seen in its sweet-smelling flowers which appear from winter through early spring. The blooms start out tubular and deep pink but mature into clusters of white, four-petaled blossoms, retaining some edges of pink-purple.

Winter daphne 'Sweet Amethyst'

The flowers of winter daphne 'Sweet Amethyst' grow in clusters of delicate, four-petaled, pink-purple blossoms. This plant blooms in winter through early spring, but its leaves remain green year-round. Winter daphne 'Sweet Amethyst' is a cultivar of Daphne odora, and gets its name from its sweetly fragrant flowers. The star-like blossoms stand out against the glossy green leaves and are revered for the perfume, color, and character they add to gardens in mid-winter.

Winter daphne 'Perfume Princess'

Winter daphne 'Perfume Princess' is the earliest- and longest-blooming cultivar of Daphne odora. Its name derives from its highly fragrant flowers whose delectable scent is at once sweet and spicy with slight citrus undertones. In addition to its fragrance, gardeners love it for its evergreen leaves and its deep pink flowers which mature to white, blossoming from mid-winter through spring.

Common Pests & Diseases

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The Toxicity of Winter daphne

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More General Info About Winter daphne

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Quickly Identify Winter daphne

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Winter daphne is distinguished by its coriaceous (leather-like), shiny dark green leaves that are alternately arranged, though their dense clustering can give them a whorled appearance. This evergreen shrub typically reaches heights of 4 to 6 1/2 feet (1.2 to 2.0 meters) and spreads about 2 to 4 feet (60 to 120 cm) wide. It bears unmistakable fragrant floral cymes about 1 inch (2.5 cm) across, which are composed of salverform flowers. These blooms are typically cream to purplish in color and exhibit a four-lobed structure.