Olive-spurge Daphne Daphne oleoides
ABOUT
Daphne oleoides, commonly known as the mock olive, is a plant that bears a striking resemblance to true olive plants but is different in several key aspects. The mock olive presents leaves that are leathery and glossy, which are retained throughout the year, giving it an evergreen characteristic. These leaves are arranged in a whorled fashion on the stems, creating a dense and bushy appearance. The mock olive blooms in clusters of small, fragrant flowers that typically come in shades of pink or white. These flowers are notable for their four-parted structure, with each flower having a slender tube that opens up into a broader, petal-like structure. The contrast between the dark green leaves and the delicate flowers can be quite striking when the plant is in bloom. Following the flowering period, the mock olive produces small round fruits. The fruit is usually a drab, fleshy berry with a single seed inside. While the fruits may be attractive to birds and wildlife, they are considered inedible for humans. The bark of the mock olive is another distinctive feature. It tends to have a rough texture and may peel or crack as the plant ages, exposing an underlayer that can add to the visual interest of the plant. Overall, the mock olive is cherished for its attractive foliage, aromatic flowers, and versatility in the landscape. Its resilience and relatively low maintenance requirements make it a favored choice for gardens, where it is often planted for ornamental purposes.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Thymelaeaceae.
Synonyms
Oleander-leaved Daphne, Gnidium.
Common names
Daphne oleoides Schreb.
ToxicityTo humans
The Daphne plant (Daphne oleoides) contains toxic substances, primarily daphnetoxin and mezerein, which can be dangerous to humans if ingested. All parts of the plant, including the berries, bark, and leaves, are poisonous. Symptoms of poisoning may include burning sensations in the mouth and throat, increased salivation, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, and weakness. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to convulsions, coma, and even be fatal.
To pets
The Daphne plant is also toxic to pets. If a pet ingests any part of the plant, symptoms of poisoning can be similar to those in humans. These might include drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, and in severe cases, seizures or coma. The berries of the Daphne plant may be particularly attractive to pets but are very toxic and can potentially lead to fatal outcomes. If you suspect your pet has ingested this plant, seek immediate veterinary care.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
3 feet [0.91 meters]
Spread
3 feet [0.91 meters]
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
7
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental appeal: Daphne oleoides is often used in gardens and landscapes for its attractive evergreen foliage and pleasant floral fragrance, enhancing the aesthetic value of the environment.
- Habitat for wildlife: The plant provides shelter and food for various insects and birds, contributing to biodiversity in its native habitat.
- Soil stabilization: The root system of Daphne oleoides can help prevent soil erosion, particularly in sloped areas where it is native or has been introduced.
- Drought tolerance: Once established, Daphne oleoides is relatively drought-tolerant, making it suitable for xeriscaping and gardens in areas with low water availability.
- Seasonal interest: It has a long flowering period, typically producing blooms in the spring that add seasonal interest to the garden.
- Low maintenance: Daphne oleoides generally requires minimal maintenance once established, which can be advantageous for gardeners seeking plants that do not require constant care.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Daphne oleoides has been used for its anti-inflammatory properties, potentially helping to reduce swelling and pain in certain conditions.
- Analgesic: The plant may have pain-relieving effects, which could make it useful in soothing various types of pain.
- Antimicrobial: Some reports suggest that the plant possesses antimicrobial properties, meaning it can inhibit the growth of certain bacteria and fungi.
- Wound healing: There is some indication that Daphne oleoides could promote wound healing, although this application should be approached with caution due to the plant's toxicity.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Daphne oleoides, commonly known as Gnidia, can be used as a natural dye due to the pigments present in its bark and leaves, often yielding a range of earthy tones.
- Gnidia wood is dense and can be used for small carving projects such as decorative items or jewelry.
- Due to its aromatic qualities, Gnidia has been traditionally used in perfumery to provide a distinctive woody scent.
- Gnidia fibers from the bark can be utilized for making strong ropes or twine in regions where it grows abundantly.
- This plant's wax-covered berries are sometimes used for making boutique candles with a slight fragrance.
- Incorporating Gnidia branches into floral arrangements adds a unique, wild texture to bouquets and displays.
- Thinly sliced Gnidia stems are occasionally used in artisan paper-making processes to create textured paper with a natural feel.
- Gnidia's evergreen leaves provide year-round greenery for garden landscapes, especially in rock gardens and Mediterranean-style settings.
- The plant's resistance to pests and diseases makes it a good candidate for use in natural, chemical-free gardening practices.
- Gnidia can be planted as a companion plant, potentially helping to deter certain pests from more sensitive crops or ornamentals.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Daphne oleoides is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Daphne oleoides is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Beauty and Grace: Daphne oleoides, often associated with Daphne, a nymph in Greek mythology, symbolizes beauty and grace, reflecting the plant's attractive blossoms and the mythology's reference to a figure of remarkable beauty.
- Purity and Innocence: The delicate flowers and unassuming appearance of the shrub can be seen as a representation of purity and innocence.
- Immortality: In some cultures, evergreen plants like Daphne oleoides, which remain green throughout the year, symbolize immortality and the eternal aspect of the human soul.
- Love and Passion: The intoxicating fragrance of the Daphne flower is often associated with love and passion, indicating a deep attraction or affection.
- Protection: In folk beliefs, evergreens are sometimes thought to have protective qualities, thus daphne plants are believed to guard against negative influences.
WaterDaphne oleoides, more commonly known as the Grecian daphne, requires moderate watering, being careful not to over-water as it prefers well-drained soil. Water the plant when the top inch of the soil feels dry, which typically translates to about once a week, depending on climatic conditions and soil type. During the active growing season, it might need water more frequently, but always check the soil moisture first. Water with gentleness at the base of the plant until the soil is moist but not soggy, using approximately one gallon per watering session for an established plant. In the winter, reduce watering to prevent root rot, since the plant requires less moisture during this dormant period.
LightGrecian daphne flourishes in partial shade to full sun. For best growth, position the plant in a spot that receives morning sunlight and is protected from the intense heat of the afternoon sun. Adequate lighting helps the Grecian daphne produce its characteristic flowers and maintain healthy foliage.
TemperatureGrecian daphne enjoys moderate temperatures and is hardy to USDA zones 7 through 9. It can survive minimum temperatures down to around 0°F and maximum temperatures typical of temperate climates. The ideal temperature range for Grecian daphne is between 50°F and 75°F, as excessive heat or cold may damage the plant.
PruningPrune Grecian daphne to maintain its shape, remove damaged branches, and encourage healthy growth. Pruning is best done in early spring, just after the plant has finished flowering. Cut back any overly long or unwanted branches, taking care not to remove more than one-third of the plant at a time. Pruning every year or every other year is typically sufficient for maintaining an attractive and healthy plant.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThyme-leaf daphne (Daphne oleoides) thrives in well-draining soil with a mixture of one-third sand, one-third garden soil, and one-third peat or compost. The ideal pH level should be slightly alkaline to neutral, ranging from 7.0 to 7.5.
RepottingThyme-leaf daphne should be repotted sparingly, only when it outgrows its container, which is typically every two to three years to prevent root crowding.
Humidity & MistingThyme-leaf daphne prefers moderate humidity levels, but it can tolerate a range of conditions as long as there is good air circulation around the plant.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and ensure well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Choose a sunny spot with shelter from strong winds and well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
7-9 USDA
Life cycleDaphne oleoides, commonly known as the Oleander-leafed Daphne, begins its life cycle as a seed, which germinates in moist, well-drained soil typically during spring. Following germination, it grows into a seedling, developing true leaves and establishing a root system. As it matures, this evergreen shrub undergoes vegetative growth, producing distinctive narrow, dark green leaves and a woody stem. Upon reaching maturity, which can take several years, the Oleander-leafed Daphne produces fragrant flowers, usually in late spring to early summer, that are pale pink to white in color. Following pollination, the flowers develop into fleshy red or black berries containing seeds, which when dispersed, restart the cycle. This plant can live for many years, flowering annually with the right conditions.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
Propogation: Daphne oleoides, commonly known as the Olive Daphne, is most effectively propagated using semi-hardwood cuttings taken during the summer. To propagate using this method, a healthy stem cutting from the current year's growth, approximately 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) long, is selected. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end is dipped into a rooting hormone to stimulate root growth. The cutting is then planted in a well-draining soil mixture, ensuring that at least one or two nodes are buried where leaves were removed, as this is where new roots will emerge. The soil must be kept consistently moist, but not saturated, and the cutting should be placed in indirect light until roots have established, after which it can be transplanted to a more permanent location.
