Winter Daphne Daphne odora var. rubra
ABOUT
Daphne odora var. rubra, commonly known as winter daphne, is an ornamental shrub known for its vibrant blooms and sweet fragrance. The appearance of this plant is characterized by its glossy, leathery evergreen leaves, which are arranged in an attractive, densely packed manner. The leaves themselves are a deep green hue with a somewhat elongated shape, creating a lush backdrop for the plant's flowers. The flowers of the winter daphne are particularly striking. They bloom in clusters, also known as inflorescences, which take on a shade of rosy-pink, adding a splash of color to the winter and early spring landscape when many other plants remain dormant. The blossoms are small and consist of four petals that create a delicate, tubular shape, perfectly designed to release their intoxicating scent into the surrounding air. Winter daphne's beauty is further accentuated by its red fruits, which can also add ornamental value. The contrast between the dark green of the foliage, the rosy-pink of the flowers, and the bold red of the fruit makes this plant a noteworthy and desirable addition to gardens where it can be showcased during its blooming season. In summary, winter daphne is truly a feast for the senses, with its eye-catching flowers, appealing evergreen leaves, and a fragrance that heralds the coming of spring.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Thymelaeaceae
Synonyms
Red Winter Daphne, Fragrant Daphne, Winter Daphne
Common names
Daphne indica var. rubra, Daphne odora f. rubra.
ToxicityTo humans
The common name for Daphne odora var. rubra is Winter Daphne. Winter Daphne is toxic to humans if ingested. Its toxic constituents can cause symptoms such as burning sensation in the mouth, intense salivation, diarrhea, headache, cramps, and nausea. In severe cases, consuming this plant may lead to more serious effects like seizures, weakness, and cardiac arrhythmia. Handling the plant may also result in skin irritation or an allergic reaction for some individuals.
To pets
Winter Daphne is also toxic to pets, including dogs and cats. Ingesting any part of this plant can lead to symptoms similar to those in humans, such as drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, and loss of appetite. In severe cases, it can cause central nervous system depression, convulsions, and potentially be fatal if enough of the plant material is consumed. Skin contact with the plant’s sap may also cause dermatitis in pets.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Varies
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
7-9
Native area
China
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Produces attractive reddish-pink blooms that enhance the visual beauty of gardens.
- Fragrance: Emits a pleasant, intense aroma that can perfume an entire garden area.
- Year-Round Interest: Has evergreen foliage that retains its color and structure throughout the year, providing constant visual interest.
- Wildlife Attraction: The flowers can attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, providing ecological benefits.
- Low Maintenance: Generally requires minimal care once established, making it suitable for busy gardeners or those looking for ease of cultivation.
- Versatility in Landscaping: Can be used in a variety of landscaping designs including borders, foundation plantings, and as a specimen plant.
- Container Gardening: Suitable for growing in containers, allowing those with limited space to enjoy its attributes.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, has a degree of drought resistance which is beneficial in water-conservation areas or during dry spells.
- Shade Tolerance: Able to grow in partial shade, providing flexibility in garden design and plant placement.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Daphne odora var. rubra, commonly known as winter daphne, can be used in perfumery due to its intense, sweet fragrance which can be infused into oils and perfumes.
- The wood of winter daphne is hard and dense; in small scale woodworking, it can be used to make detailed carvings or fine inlays in furniture.
- Winter daphne flowers can be used in pressed flower art, preserving their beauty in crafts like bookmarks, cards, or framed decorations.
- The crushed leaves of winter daphne can be used as a natural insect repellent for protecting clothes and linens in storage.
- Winter daphne is sometimes used in ceremonial contexts, such as in wreaths or floral arrangements for weddings and other formal events.
- In landscape designing, the winter daphne is used for creating focal points in gardens due to its attractive foliage and winter blooms.
- As a subject for botanical illustration and photography, winter daphne's aesthetically pleasing flowers and form draw the interest of artists and photographers.
- Winter daphne's evergreen foliage can be used in the composition of green roofs, contributing to biodiversity and building insulation.
- The plant can be used in educational settings, like horticulture classes, to teach about plant propagation and care.
- Winter daphne can be grown as a container plant, providing a fragrant display on patios and balconies where garden space is limited.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Winter Daphne is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Winter Daphne is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Purity: Daphne odora, often known by its common name 'Winter Daphne,' is frequently associated with purity due to its delicate white to light pink blooms that stand out in the winter landscape.
- Love: The Winter Daphne's attractive fragrance and beautiful flowers also symbolize love and affection, making it a desirable plant for romantic occasions.
- Protection: In some cultures, Daphne odora is thought to have protective qualities, believed to guard against negative energies or misfortune.
- Immortality: The evergreen nature of Winter Daphne symbolizes immortality and eternal life, as it maintains its vibrant green leaves throughout the year.
- Good Fortune: The plant is also considered to be an emblem of good fortune, particularly because it blooms around the Lunar New Year in many Asian cultures.
WaterThe Winter Daphne requires consistent moisture but does not do well with wet feet, so ensure the soil is well-draining. Water the plant deeply when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch, which might be once a week during the growing season. In cooler weather or when the plant is not actively growing, reduce watering frequency to when the top two inches of soil are dry. It's critical not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot. An approximate guide is to provide the plant with about one gallon of water every 7 to 10 days, adjusting based on weather conditions and soil drainage.
LightWinter Daphne thrives in partial shade to full sun, with the plant best suited to a spot that receives morning sunlight and afternoon shade. It's important to protect the plant from the harsh afternoon sun, especially in hotter climates, to prevent scorching of the leaves. Dappled light throughout the day is also a suitable lighting condition for a healthy Winter Daphne.
TemperatureThe Winter Daphne prefers a temperate climate with temperatures ranging from 45°F to 75°F. It's hardy to USDA zones 7 through 9 and can withstand minimum winter temperatures down to around 0°F to 10°F. To thrive, the plant should be situated in an area where extreme temperature fluctuations are minimal, and it's protected from harsh winter winds.
PruningPrune Winter Daphne sparingly to shape the plant or remove damaged and diseased branches, as it does not respond well to hard pruning. The best time for pruning is just after flowering finishes in late spring. Lightly trim the plant to maintain its natural shape and remove any unsightly or overgrown branches, generally once per year.
CleaningAs needed
SoilWinter Daphne (Daphne odora var. rubra) prefers a well-draining soil mix with high organic matter content. Aim for soil that retains moisture but does not become waterlogged. A suitable mix can be created using two parts loam to one part perlite or coarse sand and one part peat or well-rotted compost. The soil pH should be slightly acidic, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0 for optimal growth.
RepottingWinter Daphne typically requires repotting every 2 to 3 years to prevent it from becoming root-bound. However, this plant does not like to be disturbed, so repotting should be done with care. The best time to repot is in the spring or early fall when the plant is not in active bloom. Always ensure the new pot is only slightly larger than the previous one.
Humidity & MistingWinter Daphne thrives best in moderate to high humidity levels, ideally between 50% to 70%. This can be achieved by placing a humidifier nearby or by setting the pot on a tray of wet pebbles to increase the ambient moisture around the plant without affecting its watering schedule.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Bright, indirect light, avoid overwatering, protect from drafts.
Outdoor
Partial shade, sheltered from strong winds, protect from frost.
Hardiness zone
7-9 USDA.
Life cycleDaphne odora var. rubra, commonly known as red winter daphne, starts its life cycle with seed germination, occurring in spring under warm, moist conditions. The seedlings initially develop a small rosette of leaves and spend a few years maturing into bushy shrubs before they commence the reproductive phase. Flowering typically occurs in late winter to early spring, with red blossoms that are fragrant and attract pollinators. After pollination, the shrub produces berry-like fruits containing seeds, which disperse to give rise to new plants. As the plant matures, it undergoes a period of vegetative growth each year, gaining in size and foliage density. The red winter daphne has a lifespan that can extend over several years, with proper care and favorable conditions prolonging its longevity.
PropogationPropogation time
Late winter-early spring
Propogation: Daphne odora var. rubra, more commonly known as Winter Daphne, is typically propagated through semi-hardwood cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is during the late summer, as this allows them sufficient time to root before the onset of cold weather. To propagate through cuttings, a 4 to 6 inch length of stem should be selected, ideally with several leaves at the top. The cut end of the stem is then dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root growth and planted in a well-draining soil mix. The cutting should be kept moist but not waterlogged, and in a warm, bright location out of direct sunlight until roots have established, which typically takes several weeks to a couple of months. Covering the cutting with a plastic bag can help maintain humidity, but care must be taken to prevent fungal growth by providing ventilation and avoiding excessive moisture.
