Henderson's Daphne Daphne × hendersonii 'Kath Dryden'
ABOUT
Daphne × hendersonii 'Kath Dryden' is a hybrid of the Daphne genus, known for its ornamental qualities and fragrant flowers. This particular cultivar is prized for its attractive appearance throughout much of the year. The plant bears clusters of beautiful flowers which can range from pale pink to a deeper rosy pink hue. These blooms have a delightfully sweet aroma, making them a favorite among gardeners who enjoy scented plants. The foliage consists of small, narrow leaves that are arranged in a whorled pattern. These leaves often have a leathery texture and a glossy surface, lending an elegant look to the plant. The leaves can be a rich green to bluish-green color, providing a lovely contrast to the colorful flowers. Beyond the vibrant flowers and lush foliage, 'Kath Dryden' may also produce small, round fruits. However, it's important to note that, like many other plants in the Daphne genus, all parts of the plant, including the fruit, can be toxic if ingested. As a garden specimen, Daphne × hendersonii 'Kath Dryden' adds a splash of color and fragrance, making it ideal for planting in areas where its beauty and scent can be fully appreciated, such as near patios, walkways, or in mixed shrub borders. Its compact and tidy appearance ensures that it integrates well with other plants in a landscape setting, contributing to an aesthetically pleasing garden design.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Thymelaeaceae
Synonyms
Henderson's Daphne
Common names
Daphne × hendersonii 'Kath Dryden'.
ToxicityTo humans
Daphne plants are known for their toxicity to humans. All parts of the Daphne contain poisonous substances, particularly daphnetoxin and mezerein. If ingested, the toxins can cause intense burning sensations in the mouth and throat, excessive salivation, stomach pain, diarrhea, headache, and in severe cases can lead to convulsions, coma, and death due to complications affecting the gastrointestinal and nervous systems. It is highly advised to avoid ingesting any part of the Daphne plant.
To pets
Daphne plants are also toxic to pets. The plant contains poisonous compounds such as daphnetoxin and mezerein, which can be harmful if any part of the plant is ingested by animals. Symptoms of Daphne poisoning in pets include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, weakness, convulsions, and urgent medical attention should be sought. Ingesting this plant can be fatal to pets, so it is crucial to prevent them from coming into contact with any part of the Daphne.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Dark green
Flower color
Pink
Height
1ft 4in (40cm)
Spread
1ft 4in (40cm)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
7
Native area
Cultivar
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental appeal: Daphne × hendersonii 'Kath Dryden' has a compact growth habit and attractive foliage, making it a desirable addition to ornamental gardens.
- Fragrant flowers: The plant produces beautifully scented flowers, which can enhance the sensory experience of a garden.
- Early flowering: It blooms early in the season, providing colour and interest in the garden at a time when few other plants may be flowering.
- Wildlife attraction: The flowers can attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, supporting biodiversity.
- Evergreen nature: As an evergreen, Daphne 'Kath Dryden' provides year-round greenery, maintaining garden interest even in winter months.
- Low maintenance: Once established, it generally requires minimal care, suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Drought-tolerant: The plant is relatively tolerant of dry conditions once established, 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- The dried bark of Daphne can be used in making traditional handcrafted paper, offering a unique texture and finish.
- Daphne's flowers can be used as a natural dye for fabrics, giving them a soft yellow to green hue.
- Its wood, being dense and hard, can be carved into small decorative items or tools like knitting needles or crochet hooks.
- The fibrous stems can be used in basket weaving to create intricate and beautiful patterns.
- The wax from the berries of Daphne can be extracted and used in candle making, providing a light fragrance.
- Fallen Daphne leaves can be used as a natural mulch to help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
- Pressed Daphne flowers can be used in botanical art, adding beauty to cards, bookmarks, or picture frames.
- The aromatic flowers can be placed in wardrobes or drawers as a natural moth repellent and to freshen up the space.
- In perfumery, extracts of Daphne flowers can be used to create bespoke and unique perfumes with a rare scent note.
- During holiday seasons, branches of Daphne can be incorporated into festive wreaths for their fragrance and evergreen foliage.
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- Love and Affection: Daphne plants are often associated with love and affection due to the myth of Apollo and the nymph Daphne from Greek mythology, where Daphne was transformed into a laurel bush to escape Apollo's pursuits, and he henceforth held the laurel in high esteem.
- Immortality and Eternal Life: Due to its evergreen nature and association with the gods through myth, the Daphne is symbolic of immortality and eternal life, representing the undying aspect of the human soul.
- Protection: In some cultures, Daphne is considered to provide protection due to its strong, sweet fragrance that is believed to ward off evil spirits.
- Purity: The delicate flowers of the Daphne are often associated with purity and the innocence of youth, possibly because of their pure, white appearance.
WaterThe Henderson's Daphne should be watered thoroughly whenever the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch, which might be once every week or two, depending on climate conditions and season. In hot, dry periods, more frequent watering may be necessary. It's important to avoid waterlogging; ensure the pot has good drainage. Approximately 1-2 gallons of water should be applied at each watering to ensure the root zone is adequately moistened. During winter, reduce watering but do not let the soil completely dry out.
LightHenderson's Daphne prefers a spot with partial sun to light shade. It should receive some morning sun but be protected from the intense heat of the afternoon. Bright but indirect light is ideal for this plant, as too much direct sunlight can damage its foliage.
TemperatureHenderson's Daphne thrives best in temperature ranges between 40 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive minimum temperatures down to about 20 degrees Fahrenheit but should be protected from severe cold. The ideal condition is a cool to moderate climate without extreme variations in temperature.
PruningPruning Henderson's Daphne is generally done to shape the plant, remove any dead or diseased wood, and encourage a bushier growth habit. The best time to prune is immediately after the plant has finished flowering in the spring. Pruning should be minimal, only cutting back as necessary to maintain the desired shape and health of the plant.
CleaningAs needed
SoilHenderson's Daphne prefers well-draining, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.0-7.0. A mix of equal parts garden soil, peat moss, and perlite or sand will ensure proper drainage and aeration.
RepottingHenderson's Daphne should be repotted every 2-3 years or when root-bound. Minimize root disturbance during repotting to avoid plant stress.
Humidity & MistingHenderson's Daphne thrives in moderate humidity, aiming for levels around 50-60%. Avoid excessively dry or damp atmospheres to maintain the plant's health.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light; avoid over-watering, maintain moderate humidity.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, shelter from strong winds, ensure soil drainage.
Hardiness zone
7-9 USDA
Life cycleDaphne × hendersonii 'Kath Dryden', also known as Kath Dryden daphne, begins its life cycle as a seed, potentially produced by the cross-pollination of two different daphne parent species. Upon germination, which requires stratification to break dormancy, the seedling emerges and develops primary leaves, establishing a root system. The plant then enters a vegetative growth phase, characterized by the development of stems, leaves, and a more robust root network. In time, the Kath Dryden daphne reaches maturity and begins its reproductive phase, producing clusters of fragrant, pink to purple flowers that attract pollinators. After pollination, the flowers develop into berry-like fruits called drupes containing seeds, which complete the reproduction cycle. This perennial shrub may continue this growth and reproductive cycle for many years, with seasonal dieback in colder climates and resprouting in spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
Propogation: Daphne × hendersonii 'Kath Dryden', commonly known as Daphne, is best propagated through semi-hardwood cuttings taken during mid-summer to early fall. To propagate, select a healthy stem with several leaves and cut it to a length of about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters). Strip the lower leaves to expose the nodes and dip the cutting end into rooting hormone powder to enhance root development. The cutting should then be placed in a well-draining potting mix, ensuring at least one node is buried beneath the soil surface. The pot needs to be kept in a warm and humid environment, with indirect light, while avoiding direct sunlight that can scorch the delicate cutting. A plastic bag or a propagator can be used to maintain humidity. Cuttings typically root in a few weeks, after which they can slowly be acclimated to normal conditions before transplanting.
