Burkwood Daphne Daphne × burkwoodii
ABOUT
Daphne × burkwoodii, commonly known as Burkwood Daphne, is a deciduous shrub that is widely appreciated for its attractive form and fragrant flowers. The plant typically has a rounded and bushy appearance with a dense branching habit. This contributes to its lush and full look throughout the growing season. The leaves of Burkwood Daphne are narrow and elongated, with a glossy, deep green hue that adds a vibrant splash of color to gardens and landscapes. These leaves are arranged neatly along the branches, creating a neat and tidy appearance. One of the most striking features of this plant is its flowers. The blooms of Burkwood Daphne are small but numerous, clustered together in tight bunches. They usually appear in late spring and boast a delightful fragrance that can be noticed even from a distance. The individual flowers are typically a pale pink or white with a slightly darker center, exuding an elegant charm. Completing the visual appeal of Burkwood Daphne are the fruits that follow the flowering period. These are small, fleshy berries that can be a red or orange color, adding yet another layer of interest to this already captivating plant.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Thymelaeaceae
Synonyms
Burkwood Daphne, Garland Flower, Daphne
Common names
Daphne × burkwoodii
ToxicityTo humans
Daphne × burkwoodii, commonly known as Burkwood Daphne, is indeed a toxic plant to humans. All parts of the plant, particularly the berries, contain potent toxins and can cause serious health issues if ingested. Symptoms of poisoning from Burkwood Daphne can include burning sensations in the mouth, increased salivation, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, ingesting this plant can lead to more serious symptoms such as headache, weakness, convulsions, and in some instances, coma or death due to cardiac failure or respiratory complications.
To pets
Burkwood Daphne is also highly toxic to pets, such as cats and dogs. If a pet ingests any part of this plant, they may exhibit symptoms similar to those observed in humans, which can include drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, and loss of appetite. In severe cases, ingestion can result in more extreme symptoms such as convulsions or respiratory failure, which can be fatal. Immediate veterinary care should be sought if a pet has consumed any part of a Burkwood Daphne plant.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
3-4 feet (0.9-1.2 meters)
Spread
3-4 feet (0.9-1.2 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
4-9
Native area
Hybrid
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Burkwood daphne is known for its beautiful blooms that add color and visual interest to gardens.
- Fragrance: The plant emits a delightful fragrance from its flowers, which can enhance the sensory pleasure of any garden or landscape setting.
- Attracts Pollinators: Burkwood daphne draws in beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies, which are essential for the pollination of many plants.
- Compact Growth: Its relatively small size and compact growth habit make it suitable for smaller gardens or spaces and as a border plant.
- Versatility: It can be used in various landscape applications, including foundation plantings, mixed borders, and as a specimen plant.
- Seasonal Interest: With its spring flowers and occasionally colorful berries, Burkwood daphne provides multi-seasonal interest.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, it requires minimal maintenance, only needing occasional watering and pruning to keep its shape.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Daphne × burkwoodii, also known as Burkwood Daphne, can be used as a natural dye for fabrics, producing subtle shades depending on the mordant used.
- In some cultures, the wood of Burkwood Daphne is valued for its fine grain and is used in small-scale woodworking projects, such as inlays and decorative carvings.
- The plant's foliage can be used to create a dense and attractive ground cover in gardens where other plants struggle to grow due to shade.
- Burkwood Daphne is used in sensory gardens due to its fragrant flowers, providing an experiential element particularly beneficial for individuals with sensory impairments.
- Some gardeners use the branches of Burkwood Daphne to create natural, rustic-looking trellises or supports for other climbing plants.
- The distinctive scent of Burkwood Daphne flowers is sometimes captured in potpourris or used in homemade sachets to naturally scent drawers and wardrobes.
- In floral arrangements, the cut flowers of Burkwood Daphne can provide not only visual appeal but also a lasting fragrance.
- With its ability to attract pollinators, particularly butterflies, Burkwood Daphne is used to enhance the biodiversity of gardens and provide ecological benefits.
- The evergreen varieties of Burkwood Daphne can provide year-round visual interest in rock gardens or when planted among boulders and large stones.
- When planted in containers, Burkwood Daphne can be used to adorn patios, balconies, or doorsteps with both their appearance and fragrance.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Daphne is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant Daphne is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Purity: Daphne, in Greek mythology, is associated with the nymph who was transformed into a laurel bush, representing innocence and chastity.
- Protection: The aromatic nature of the Daphne x burkwoodii, commonly known as Burkwood Daphne, is sometimes connected to protection and the warding off of negative energies.
- Love and Affection: With its fragrant flowers, the Burkwood Daphne can symbolize love and the desire to please, as scents are often associated with attraction and romance.
WaterBurkwood Daphne should be watered thoroughly, ensuring the soil is moist without being waterlogged. Water this plant when the top inch of soil feels dry, which could be approximately once a week, depending on climate conditions and soil drainage. It is crucial to avoid over-watering, as it can lead to root rot. In general, Burkwood Daphne may need about 1 gallon of water per week during active growth periods in spring and summer, reducing the frequency in the fall and nearly ceasing in winter when the plant is dormant.
LightBurkwood Daphne thrives in partial sun to partial shade, ideally receiving morning sunlight and afternoon shade. An eastern facing spot that gets bright, indirect sunlight for most of the day is optimal. Avoid exposure to harsh afternoon sun, which can scorch the foliage of the plant.
TemperatureBurkwood Daphne prefers moderate temperatures and can generally tolerate a range between 60°F and 70°F. They should not be exposed to temperatures below 20°F, as they can be damaged by severe frost. The ideal growth temperatures are typically between 60°F and 75°F, providing a comfortable range for this temperate-loving shrub.
PruningPrune Burkwood Daphne to maintain shape and remove dead or diseased wood, which helps to promote good air circulation and prevent disease. Pruning is best done just after the plant finishes flowering, typically in late spring to early summer. Light pruning annually or biannually will suffice, focusing on shaping the plant and removing any unwanted growth.
CleaningAs needed
SoilBurkwood Daphne requires a well-draining soil mix with compost and gritty material like perlite, with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5 to flourish.
RepottingBurkwood Daphne rarely needs repotting; doing so every 3 to 4 years is usually sufficient unless it outgrows its pot.
Humidity & MistingBurkwood Daphne prefers average to high humidity but is adaptable to various humidity levels as long as it is not overly dry.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Burkwood Daphne near bright window but not direct sun.
Outdoor
Plant Burkwood Daphne in partial shade with shelter.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleBurkwood Daphne begins its life cycle as a seed, which germinates in favorable soil conditions with proper moisture and light. The seedling stage is followed by the development of roots and shoots as it establishes itself. As a juvenile, it slowly matures, developing stems, leaves, and a root system that allow it to absorb nutrients and water more efficiently. The plant reaches maturity and begins to produce its characteristic fragrant flowers typically in spring, attracting pollinators which are essential for sexual reproduction and fruit set. After pollination, the flowers develop into small red berries, which contain seeds that are dispersed by animals or natural elements to propagate the species. Throughout its life, Burkwood Daphne goes through seasonal cycles of growth and dormancy, adapting to environmental changes until it eventually senesces and dies.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
Daphne × burkwoodii, commonly known as Burkwood Daphne, is typically propagated through semi-hardwood cuttings. This method involves taking cuttings of the plant's stems during the summer months when new growth has begun to mature and harden slightly. Cut a 4 to 6-inch (10 to 15 centimeters) section of stem just below a leaf node and remove the lower leaves. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and then insert it into a pot filled with a well-draining potting mix. Place the pot in a warm, bright place out of direct sunlight and maintain consistent moisture. Roots generally form within a few weeks, after which the new plant can eventually be transplanted into the garden.
