Nepalese paper plant Daphne bholua
ABOUT
The Daphne bholua, commonly known as the paper daphne, boasts a delightful appearance characterized by its evergreen shrub form that provides year-round interest. Its branches are covered with glossy, lance-shaped leaves, which present a lush backdrop for the flowers. The plant becomes especially captivating when it blooms, typically in winter to early spring, showcasing clusters of fragrant, tubular flowers. These blossoms are usually a shade of pink or white and are noted for their powerful sweet scent that can fill the air around the plant. After the flowering season, the paper daphne may produce small, round fruits, but these are not particularly ornamental and are often hidden beneath the foliage. The overall aesthetic of the paper daphne is one of elegance and simplicity, making it a beloved choice for gardens and landscapes seeking a touch of natural beauty and delightful fragrance.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Thymelaeaceae
Synonyms
Nepalese Paper Plant, Himalayan Daphne, Griffith's Daphne
Common names
Daphne bholua.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters)
Spread
4 feet (1.2 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
7
Native area
Himalayas
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Daphne bholua, commonly known as "paper daphne," is widely appreciated for its attractive blooms and is often used in ornamental gardening.
- Fragrance: The plant is renowned for its delightful fragrance, which can add a pleasant scent to gardens and outdoor spaces.
- Wildlife Attraction: The flowers of paper daphne can attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, promoting biodiversity in the garden.
- Small Garden Suitability: With a compact growth habit, paper daphne is suitable for smaller gardens or spaces where a large plant would be impractical.
- Seasonal Interest: Offering flowers in late winter to early spring, paper daphne provides color and interest during a time when few other plants are in bloom.
- Cultural Significance: In some cultures, paper daphne has historical and cultural importance, which can add a layer of meaning to its presence in a garden or landscape.
Medical Properties- Analgesic: Daphne bholua has been utilized in traditional medicine systems for its pain-relieving properties.
- Anti-inflammatory: The plant may possess compounds that help in reducing inflammation.
- Antipyretic: It has been used traditionally to reduce fever.
- Antirheumatic: Extracts from Daphne bholua have been used to treat rheumatic conditions.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Daphne bholua's bark can be used in traditional paper making processes, particularly in Nepal, where its fibrous material is valued for handcrafted paper products.
- The wood of Daphne bholua is sometimes utilized in the construction of small implements, as its compact structure makes it suitable for fine, detailed workmanship.
- In Himalayan cultures, branches and twigs of this plant are used in religious ceremonies, often as incense or as an offering due to their aromatic properties.
- The plant is also cultivated as an ornamental garden plant outside of its native range for its winter flowers, which add color to gardens during the colder months.
- Daphne bholua is also used in perfumery, thanks to its fragrant blossoms which can be a source of essential oils or used to infuse fragrance into lotions and potions.
- The plant's fruit, though not widely consumed, is occasionally used to make dyes for coloring fabrics and other materials in local crafting traditions.
- Some cultures use the branches of Daphne bholua to create musical instruments due to the wood's resonant qualities and durability.
- The leathery leaves can be integrated into floral arrangements or used as a natural decorative element in art and craft projects.
- In some regions, the plant is integrated into landscaping to stabilize slopes and prevent soil erosion due to its root system.
- Gardeners sometimes use Daphne bholua as a companion plant to attract pollinators, thereby benefiting the surrounding plant life in gardens and agricultural fields.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Daphne is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Daphne is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Eternal Love: The Daphne bholua, or simply Daphne, is often associated with eternal love, due to the legend of the nymph Daphne, who was turned into a laurel tree to escape the pursuit of the god Apollo, who then used its leaves to create a symbol of undying affection.
- Immortality: With its association to the divine and its evergreen nature in some varieties, the Daphne signifies immortality and the eternal life of the soul.
- Protection: In ancient cultures, Daphne was thought to provide protection due to its divine associations. It was often planted near homes for this purpose.
- Purity: The fragrant flowers of the Daphne, which can bloom even in the cold of winter, are seen as a symbol of purity and innocence.
- Good Fortune: The Daphne is sometimes linked to good fortune, particularly in Eastern cultures, where it can be seen as auspicious to receive during the New Year.
WaterTo water a Himalayan Daphne, ensure it maintains consistent moisture, particularly during its growing season in spring and summer. They need a moderate but regular watering schedule, avoiding waterlogged soil. Aim for about an inch of water per week, adjusting for rainfall, and allow the topsoil to slightly dry out between waterings. During dry spells, it may require additional watering, while in winter, watering should be reduced. A good approach is to provide approximately 1-2 gallons every week during active growth, reducing this amount as the plant goes dormant in the cooler months.
LightHimalayan Daphne prefers a spot that receives partial shade to filtered sunlight. Bright, indirect light with protection from the intense afternoon sun is ideal, as too much direct sun can damage the foliage. Placing the plant in an east or west-facing location where it can enjoy the gentler morning or late afternoon sun is optimal for its health and flowering.
TemperatureHimalayan Daphne thrives in a temperate climate and can handle temperatures ranging from approximately 20°F to 75°F. The plant is cold hardy but prolonged temperatures below 20°F can be harmful, and it also struggles with extreme heat above 75°F. The ideal temperature range for a Himalayan Daphne is between 50°F and 70°F, where it will grow and bloom most effectively.
PruningPruning Himalayan Daphne is mainly done to shape the plant and remove any dead or diseased wood. It's best pruned lightly after it finishes flowering in late spring, to encourage new growth and maintain a compact form. Avoid heavy pruning as Daphne can be slow to recover; instead, focus on cutting back select stems and maintaining the plant's natural shape. Always use clean, sharp tools to make precise cuts.
CleaningAs needed
SoilHimalayan Daphne prefers fertile, well-drained soil with ample organic matter. A mix containing equal parts of loam, peat, and sand works well. Maintain soil pH between 6.0 and 7.5 for optimal growth.
RepottingHimalayan Daphne typically does not require frequent repotting. Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant has outgrown its current pot, taking care not to damage the roots.
Humidity & MistingThe ideal humidity for Himalayan Daphne is moderate to high. Try to maintain around 50-60% relative humidity for the best plant health.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Keep Himalayan Daphne near a bright window, away from direct sunlight.
Outdoor
Plant Himalayan Daphne in partial shade, sheltered from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
7-9 USDA
Life cycleDaphne bholua, commonly known as Nepalese paper plant, begins its life cycle as a seed, which upon germination grows into a small seedling. The seedling then develops into a young plant with a sturdy stem and vibrant foliage. As the plant matures, it enters its flowering stage, typically from late winter to early spring, producing fragrant blossoms ranging from white to pink. After pollination, the flowers develop into small berries which turn black upon ripening. The berries contain seeds that can be dispersed by birds or other wildlife, ensuring the continuation of the species. Finally, as a perennial, the plant may go dormant in colder conditions, to regrow from its root system with the arrival of more favorable seasons.
PropogationPropogation time
Late winter-early spring
Propogation: The most popular method of propagating Daphne bholua, commonly known as Himalayan Daphne, is by semi-ripe cuttings. This method is typically done in late summer. To propagate by semi-ripe cuttings, one would select a healthy, current year's growth that has started to harden (is semi-ripe). Cuttings of about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) in length are snipped just below a leaf node. The lower leaves are removed and the cut end can be dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development. The cutting is then planted in a pot filled with a mix of perlite and peat to ensure good drainage and moisture retention. It's important to keep the cutting in a warm and humid environment, out of direct sunlight, while it roots. Covering the pot with a plastic bag or placing it in a propagator can help maintain the necessary humidity levels. It may take several weeks to a few months for the cuttings to root sufficiently, after which they can be transplanted into individual pots and eventually moved to their permanent location.
