Daphne odora aka Winter Daphne
Taxonomy ID: 2794
Daphne odora, also known as winter daphne, is an evergreen shrub from the Thymelaeaceae family that is native to China, but has since spread to Japan and Korea. The plant is grown for its fragrant, fleshy, pale-pink, tubular flowers with four spreading lobes and glossy foliage. It rarely produces red berries after flowering, and the Latin specific epithet odora means "fragrant". Winter daphne prefers fertile, slightly acidic, peaty, and well-drained soils and can grow in full sun or partial shade. It is hardy to −10 °C (14 °F), possibly lower. In Korea, the plant is called "chullihyang" or "a thousand-mile scent," referring to the fragrance of the foliage, while in Japan, it is commonly known as "jinchoge". However, winter daphne is not long-lived and usually lasts eight to ten years. It is also susceptible to virus infection, which causes leaf mottling. All parts of the plant are poisonous to humans and a range of domestic animals, and some people experience dermatitis from contact with the sap. Daphne odora is propagated by semi-ripe cuttings in summer. To encourage fragrant blooms, growing winter daphne requires the right care and growing spots. Pink buds emerge in February to March, becoming clusters of fragrant, tubular blooms. The shrub reaches no more than 4 feet (1 m.) in height and usually grows to just 3 feet (1 m.) high and the same in width. The Salverform is another evergreen shrub that grows to 6 and 1/2 feet tall, producing rose-purple or white, extremely fragrant flowers in mid-to-late winter. It is moderately salt-tolerant and easy to propagate from stem cuttings.
Common names
Winter Daphne, Odorous Daphne, Sweet Scented Daphne, Ornamental Fragrant Daphne, Sweet Smell Daphne, Sweet Smelling Daphne, Fragrant Daphne, Sweet Daphne, Ornamental Winter DaphneMore information about Winter Daphne
How difficult is it to take care of Winter Daphne
With a bit of knowledge and dedication, you can successfully care for Winter Daphne, making it a rewarding choice for those seeking a moderate challenge.
What is the region of origin of Winter Daphne
Winter Daphne’s native range is E. Asia - W. China, Japan.
What are the water needs for Winter Daphne
Winter Daphne should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
What is the right soil for Winter Daphne
Winter Daphne loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
What is the sunlight requirement for Winter Daphne
Winter Daphne thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Odorous Daphne.
How to fertilize Winter Daphne
The Winter Daphne grows at a slow pace and doesn't require any supplementary fertilizers. By renewing its potting soil once a year, it should receive enough nourishment. Remember, plants obtain their energy from sunlight, not fertilizers.
Is Winter Daphne toxic to humans/pets?
Ploi lacks confirmed information on the toxicity of this plant. If you, a relative, or your pet accidentally consume plant material with unknown toxicity, it's best to consult a medical expert.
What seasonal care does Winter Daphne need?
During the wintertime, it is common for Winter Daphne plants to go dormant and their growth rate may slow down. Therefore, the amount of waterings should be spaced out more.
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