Daphne mezereum aka Mezereon

Daphne mezereum is a small shrub known as February daphne or mezereon. It belongs to the Thymelaeaceae family. Its native range spans Europe, southwest Siberia, and northern Iran. It grows in woods, woodland edges, and scrub. Some plants have spread beyond gardens in North America. Most plants lose their leaves, though some keep part of them.

In gardens, it reaches 3–5 feet [0.9–1.52 metres] tall. Its upright stems form a bushy, rounded crown. Most sources give a matching width of 3–5 feet [0.9–1.52 metres]. RHS gives a narrower spread of 1.6–3.3 feet [0.5–1 metre]. The simple leaves grow in a spiral along the stems. They widen toward the tip and have smooth edges. Leaf colour ranges from dark green to dull blue-green. The undersides may look grey-green.

The flowers open on bare twigs before the leaves appear. Their strong scent gives the shrub much of its garden value. Small clusters sit close to the stems without flower stalks. Flowers range from pink to purple, with white also reported. Missouri Botanical Garden gives March to April as the bloom period. Chicago records flowers from January through April. Round drupes follow the flowers and ripen in early summer. They start green, then turn red or sometimes yellow. Birds eat the fruit.

This shrub suits cool sites with shelter from strong winds. Partial shade is a good choice for garden growth. It can take full sun when the soil stays moist. Hot sun may scorch leaves, and hot, humid summers cause trouble. Give it rich soil that drains well without drying out. Sandy soil with humus suits it well. Mulch helps keep the roots cool. Sources give USDA zones 4–7, with Chicago listing 3–8. RHS rates it H6. Avoid moving an established plant, and keep pruning light.

Use it in borders, small groups, or an informal hedge. It resists rabbit browsing and tolerates nearby black walnut trees. Aphids, viruses, botrytis, leaf spot, and root rot can cause problems. Honey fungus is a less frequent risk. Plants may also die without a clear cause. All parts poison people and pets; eating them can be fatal. Sap and leaves can irritate skin or cause blisters. It has no known food use. Past medicinal uses are unsafe because of its toxins. Its leaves, fruit, and bark can yield dye.