Somerset Daphne Daphne × burkwoodii 'Somerset'
ABOUT
Daphne × burkwoodii 'Somerset', commonly known as Somerset daphne, is an ornamental shrub known for its attractive appearance and fragrant blooms. The plant sports a dense, rounded form with slender branches. The foliage of Somerset daphne is composed of narrow, glossy leaves that exhibit a rich green color, providing a lush backdrop for its flowers. The blossoms of Somerset daphne are particularly noteworthy and are one of the main reasons gardeners cherish this plant. They typically appear in clusters, called inflorescences, and emit a delightful fragrance that can perfume the surrounding air. These flowers are a delicate shade of pink with a paler, almost white interior, creating a subtle but appealing contrast. The soft pastel colors make the overall appearance of the plant both elegant and soothing. As the seasons change, the Somerset daphne continues to add interest to the garden. After the flowering period, the plant may produce small, round fruits. These berries are typically a red or orange color, which adds an additional pop of color to the plant's display. Even without blooms, the evergreen leaves maintain a pleasing appearance throughout the year, ensuring that the Somerset daphne remains a valuable and attractive feature in the garden landscape.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Thymelaeaceae
Synonyms
Somerset Daphne, Burkwood Daphne
Common names
Daphne × burkwoodii 'Somerset'.
ToxicityTo humans
The Somerset Daphne is poisonous to humans. All parts of the plant, especially the berries, contain toxic compounds that can cause serious health issues if ingested. Symptoms of poisoning from Somerset Daphne can include burning sensations in the mouth and throat, increased salivation, vomiting, diarrhea, and potentially, depending on the amount ingested, convulsions, and coma. Contact with the sap may also result in skin irritation or allergic reactions for sensitive individuals.
To pets
The Somerset Daphne is also toxic to pets. Like in humans, all parts of the plant are poisonous due to toxic compounds. Symptoms of pet poisoning can include drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, and central nervous system effects such as tremors, seizures, and potentially coma if consumed in large amounts. Immediate veterinary care is advised if ingestion is suspected.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
3 feet (0.91 meters)
Spread
3 feet (0.91 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Cultivar
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: Daphne × burkwoodii 'Somerset' produces clusters of fragrant, pink flowers that enhance the aesthetic value of gardens and landscapes.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers of the plant attract beneficial pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.
- Compact Size: It is a relatively small shrub, making it suitable for gardens with limited space or for use in residential landscaping.
- Seasonal Interest: This plant offers year-round interest with its evergreen foliage, fragrant spring flowers, and occasionally colorful autumn berries.
- Low Maintenance: It requires minimal pruning and can thrive with basic care, making it accessible for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it can tolerate periods of dry conditions, reducing the need for frequent watering.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Daphne Somerset can be used as a natural dye for textiles, as its flowers, when properly processed, can impart subtle hues to fabrics.
- In artistic projects, the wood can be carved into small objects or used in marquetry due to its fine grain and appealing color.
- Its leaves are sometimes used in the preparation of potpourri mixes, contributing a mild fragrance and green texture when dried.
- The plant can serve as an educational tool in botany classes to help students learn about hybrid plants and propagation techniques.
- Gardeners may use trimmings and pruned branches of Daphne Somerset as mulch to help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
- It can be incorporated into sensory gardens due to its fragrant flowers, which can provide a sensory experience for the visually impaired.
- The crushed leaves are sometimes used as a natural insect repellent for smaller pests, though its effectiveness is anecdotal.
- As a companion plant in the garden, Daphne Somerset can attract pollinators, which benefits surrounding vegetable and fruit crops.
- In landscape photography, the plant's attractive appearance and flowers can provide an appealing subject or background.
- The blossoms might be used in homemade crafts, such as flower pressing for scrapbooking or botanical artwork.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Daphne is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Daphne is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Purity: The Daphne plant often symbolizes purity due to its delicate and fragrant flowers, which are traditionally associated with innocence and cleanliness.
- Love: Given Daphne's ties to the myth of the nymph Daphne in Greek mythology, it can represent unrequited or unattainable love, as Daphne was transformed into a laurel tree to escape the god Apollo's advances.
- Glory: In ancient times, the Daphne plant was connected to glory and fame due to the laurel wreaths made from the bay laurel, a close relative, that were awarded to victors in athletic competitions and poets, as the Greek god Apollo was also the god of the arts and victory.
- Protection: Daphne is also believed to offer protection because of the myth of Apollo's eternal love for Daphne, which also turned her into a laurel tree, thus providing her with a safe haven, symbolizing a shelter or protection from unwanted advances or harm.
- Immortality: Finally, the evergreen nature of some Daphne species, including the characteristically persistent leaves of Daphne × burkwoodii 'Somerset', can symbolize immortality and the human desire for eternal life or remembrance.
WaterSomerset Daphne, due to its moderate moisture needs, should be watered thoroughly once a week, especially during the growing season in spring and summer. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out slightly before watering again to prevent waterlogging. Each watering session should provide enough water to moisten the soil to a depth of 6-8 inches, which generally translates to about 1-1.5 gallons for a medium-sized plant. During hotter periods or droughts, the plant may require more frequent watering, while in cooler seasons or rainy periods, less frequent watering may be sufficient.
LightSomerset Daphne thrives best when it receives dappled sunlight or partial shade. Positioning the plant in a spot where it gets morning light but is protected from the harsh afternoon sun is optimal. It can also prosper under the light shade of taller trees or on the east-facing side of a building to ensure appropriate light levels without excess exposure.
TemperatureSomerset Daphne prefers a temperate climate and can usually tolerate temperatures ranging from 20 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 50 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit. It can withstand brief periods of colder weather down to about 5 degrees Fahrenheit, but prolonged exposure may damage the plant. Similarly, extreme heat above 80 degrees Fahrenheit can stress the plant, particularly if night temperatures remain high.
PruningSomerset Daphne should be pruned to maintain its shape and remove any damaged or diseased branches. It's best to prune this plant right after it finishes flowering in late spring or early summer. This timing allows new growth to mature and harden off before the onset of winter. Light pruning every year or two is typically sufficient to keep the Daphne looking neat and healthy.
CleaningAs needed
SoilSomerset Daphne prefers well-draining, fertile soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. An ideal mix would include loam, peat moss, and perlite to ensure adequate drainage and fertility.
RepottingSomerset Daphne plants do not need to be repotted often; it's best to repot only every 3 to 4 years or when the plant outgrows its current container.
Humidity & MistingThe best humidity level for Somerset Daphne is moderate to high. These plants prefer a humidity range similar to what is found naturally outdoors in their growing zones.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light with high humidity.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, shelter from harsh winds.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleSomerset Daphne (Daphne × burkwoodii 'Somerset') begins its life when seeds germinate in late spring or early summer, typically requiring well-drained soil and partial shade to thrive. Seedlings develop into juvenile plants with characteristic foliage, and over several years, they reach maturity with a rounded bushy habit, flowering typically in late spring. The flowers are fragrant, clustered blooms that may attract pollinators, leading to the formation of berries. After the flowering period, the plant enters a growth phase where it focuses energy on root and foliage development to prepare for the next flowering season. As a perennial, Somerset Daphne will go through repeated cycles of growth, flowering, and dormancy, usually with a pronounced rest period in the winter when growth slows down or ceases. With proper care, this ornamental shrub can live for many years, although it is sometimes short-lived, succumbing to diseases or environmental stress factors.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Early Summer
Propogation: The most popular method of propagating the Daphne × burkwoodii 'Somerset', commonly known as Somerset daphne, is through semi-hardwood cuttings. This is typically done in late summer when the current season's growth has begun to mature and harden slightly. To propagate, a 4 to 6-inch cutting should be taken from a healthy part of the plant, ensuring it includes at least a couple of nodes. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end may be dipped in rooting hormone before it's planted in a well-draining potting mix. The cutting should then be placed in a humid environment with indirect light, where it can take several weeks to months to root effectively. Consistent moisture is key, but the soil should not be waterlogged to prevent rot.
