Danae racemosa aka Alexandrian Laurel

Danae racemosa, or poet's laurel, is a shrub that stays green all year. It belongs to Asparagaceae, the asparagus family. It is native to southern Türkiye and northwestern Syria. Its range also takes in southeastern Transcaucasia and northern Iran. Garden plants reach about 2–4 feet (0.6–1.2 metres) tall. They spread about 3–4 feet (0.9–1.2 metres) wide. RHS gives an upper size of 5 feet (1.5 metres) each way. It grows slowly and takes 10–20 years to mature.

Thin branches arch out from the crown in an open clump. The plant can look like a small stand of bamboo. It spreads through rhizomes, stems that grow below ground. Its firm green stems branch and have ridges along their length. The parts that look like leaves are flat stems called phylloclades. These glossy green parts grow in an alternate pattern. Each is narrow, with pointed ends. The true leaves near their bases are tiny and hairlike. The plant keeps its green growth through winter.

Small flowers bloom in spring and have a greenish-yellow hue. They grow in racemes, flower clusters near the stem tips. Each bloom has a bell shape but draws little notice. The round berries make a much more striking show. They start green in summer and turn orange-red in autumn. Each fruit measures about half an inch across. Groups may hold as many as ten berries. They stay on the plant into winter. The long-lasting green growth suits wreaths and flower arrangements.

Grow poet's laurel in rich soil that drains well. It likes moist ground with added organic matter. It accepts loam, clay, and sand with enough moisture. RHS allows sun or shade, but NC State warns of sun damage. Part or deep shade helps keep its green parts from changing color. Once rooted, plants cope with drought and dry shade. Shelter from cold winds helps. RHS rates it H5; NC State lists USDA zones 7b–9b. Winter cold may harm shoots but spare buds below ground.

Use it in woodland beds, borders, pots, or rock gardens. Its arching branches can trail over walls or beside paths. It also suits pond edges and sites beneath larger shrubs. Both garden sources report few serious pest or disease problems. Some stems may die back and need removal. Cut old shoots to ground level in spring. Grow new plants from seed or by dividing them. NC State notes that both methods can prove hard.