Flax-leaved daphne - Daphne gnidium (Care, Characteristics, Distribution, Images)

Flax-leaved daphne

Also known as: Spurge laurel

Flax-leaved daphne (Daphne gnidium) is an attractive, evergreen shrub with fragrant white flowers, but it is highly poisonous. Even the sap can irritate the skin. Coming from southern Europe, the Middle East, and north Africa, it can grow in poor soil and on inhospitable hillsides.

Scientific classification

Species

Flax-leaved daphne (Daphne gnidium)

Mallows, rock-roses, and allies

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Shrub

Plant Type

Spring, Summer

Bloom Time

Fall

Harvest Time

1.5 m to 2 m

Plant Height

1 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

White

Flower Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

Images of Flax-leaved daphne

Care Guide for Flax-leaved daphne

Every 2-3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Flax-leaved daphne flourishes in Mediterranean climates, enduring dry summers and mild, wet winters. With high drought tolerance, it prefers well-drained soils and requires watering every 2-3 weeks. This hardy plant effectively conserves water, making it well-suited for outdoor growth in hot conditions.

Fertilize: Fertilize flax-leaved daphne with balanced nutrition during the growing season and high nitrogen variants pre-bloom. Apply lightly every 4-6 weeks, avoiding over-feeding. Winter requires minimal feeding. Water flax-leaved daphne after fertilization for best nutrient absorption. Careful handling and following label instructions are essential for optimal health.

Pruning: Flax-leaved daphne is a shrub with lance-shaped leaves and fragrant star-shaped flowers. Prune in early to late winter by removing dead or diseased stems and thinning crowded branches for better airflow. Proper timing enhances blooming and maintains the plant's health and appearance.

Propagation: Flax-leaved daphne is a Mediterranean shrub valued for its fragrant flowers and toxic berries, belonging to the Thymelaeaceae family. It requires well-drained soil, fresh seeds for propagation, consistent moisture without waterlogging, and bright, indirect light for successful germination, which may be slow.

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