Spurge laurel - Daphne laureola (Care, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images)

Spurge laurel

Also known as: Daphne laurel, Olive-spurge

Spurge laurel (Daphne laureola) is a flowering plant native to Europe and Maghreb. Spurge laurel is poisonous and anyone handling the plant must wear gloves to avoid getting a rash from the caustic sap.

Scientific classification

Species

Spurge laurel (Daphne laureola)

Mallows, rock-roses, and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

60 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Black

Fruit Color

Yellow, Green

Flower Color

Green, Yellow

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

10 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Spurge laurel

Distribution of Spurge laurel

Distribution Map

Spurge laurel is a plant species that is native to temperate and subtropical regions of Europe and Northern Africa. It has also been introduced to regions in Oceania and Northern Europe, where it is now cultivated. This plant has successfully adapted across a mixture of climates and can be found in diverse ecological zones within its range.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Woods

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

A shade-tolerant low shrub with glossy evergreen foliage, spurge laurel is an excellent low-maintenance choice for mid-positions in flower borders and beds. Planted like that, it can add extra fragrant blooms and serve as a showy dark-green backdrop for lower bloomers at the same time. It fits in well within informal gardens, cottage gardens, and shade gardens.

Symbolism

Victory, immortality, purification, prosperity and health

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Toxicity

Spurge laurel poisoning occurs from consuming or contacting any plant part. Toxic exposure severely affects cats and dogs, causing symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Immediate veterinary care is crucial. Direct contact with sap or leaves leads to skin irritation and blistering. Bark, sap, and berries are particularly dangerous, causing severe symptoms if ingested. Prevent pet access to spurge laurel.

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Care Guide for Spurge laurel

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

10 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Adapted to temperate forest understories, spurge laurel prefers moderate humidity and tolerates brief dryness. Watering is optimal every 1-2 weeks. Primarily grown outdoors in cooler climates, spurge laurel benefits from mulching to retain soil moisture during its active growing season.

Fertilize: For optimal growth, spurge laurel requires balanced nutrition fertilizers during the growing season and high nitrogen fertilizers before flowering. Apply modestly every 2-3 months, decreasing in winter. Proper dilution is crucial to prevent root burn, promoting healthy foliage and resilience for a robust garden specimen.

Pruning: Spurge laurel features glossy, evergreen leaves and yellow-green flowers, thriving with early to late winter pruning. Focus on removing dead wood and shaping. Avoid heavy pruning to prevent stress. Clean cuts promote health, air circulation, and reduce pest risks.

Propagation: Spurge laurel propagates effectively via cuttings from healthy, semi-hardwood stems. Cut below a leaf node and remove lower leaves. Use rooting hormone, plant in well-draining mix, keep soil moist, and provide bright, indirect light until roots establish, signaling successful propagation.

Repotting: Repot spurge laurel every 2-3 years in early spring, using a medium-sized pot for root expansion. After repotting, place spurge laurel in dappled shade and water sparingly to avoid root rot, promoting healthy growth of its dark green leaves.

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Images of Spurge laurel

Distribution of Spurge laurel

Culture

Toxicity

Care Guide for Spurge laurel

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