Daphne laureola aka Spurge Laurel

Daphne laureola, or spurge laurel, is an evergreen shrub in the Thymelaeaceae family. Other names include copse laurel, wood laurel, and dwarf bay. It comes from Europe and North Africa, including Britain. It grows in woods, often on lime-rich soils. Its dark leaves stay on the plant through winter.

This slow-growing shrub forms a bush with many branches. RHS gives a garden height of 1.6–3.3 feet [0.5–1 metre]. Its spread reaches 3.3–4.9 feet [1–1.5 metres]. Other descriptions give heights of 3.9–4.9 feet [1.2–1.5 metres]. The leaves crowd the branch tips, though they grow alternately along stems. Each leaf is simple and leathery, with a glossy, deep green upper face. Leaves have an oval to oblong shape and a tapered base. Their tips may be pointed or blunt.

Small, pale green to yellow-green flowers form clusters in late winter. Each cluster holds five to twenty flowers. Their scent varies and may be pleasant or less appealing. Fleshy, oval fruits follow the flowers and turn bluish black. The flowers are less bold than those of many garden shrubs. The glossy leaves provide much of the plant's year-round garden value.

Grow spurge laurel in moist soil that drains well. It suits moderately fertile ground rich in humus. RHS lists clay, chalk, loam, and sand as suitable soils. It also accepts acid, neutral, and alkaline ground. It grows in sun or part shade and tolerates deep shade. Mulch helps keep its roots cool. Choose a sheltered site and avoid moving established plants. Root disturbance causes problems, and pruning should stay light. RHS rates it H5; PFAF lists USDA zones 6–9. It suits informal gardens, flower beds, and woodland edges. However, it has become invasive in parts of the Pacific Northwest. There, it threatens some native forest habitats.

Aphids may attack the plant. Possible diseases include phytophthora root rot, leaf spot, and virus diseases. Honey fungus is another, less frequent risk. All parts are poisonous, and the plant is toxic to people and pets. Its sap can irritate skin, so wear gloves when handling it. No edible uses are known. Past medicinal uses involved the leaves and bark, but these can cause serious harm. PFAF records vomiting and purging among their effects.