White Daphne Daphne mezereum f. alba
ABOUT
The plant known as February Daphne presents with a notable appearance that captures the eye. This particular form, distinguished by the "f. alba" in its name, boasts lovely white flowers that arise before the leaves, usually during the late winter to early spring period. These blossoms are arranged in clusters, lending a decorative fringe to the otherwise bare branches at this time of year. As the flowers fade, the plant begins to show off its foliage — leaves that emerge with a luscious green, providing a vibrant background as the seasons progress. In the summer, the February Daphne may produce red berries, although this can vary with the specific type and conditions in which it is grown. Overall, the February Daphne is appreciated for its seasonal floral display, which provides interest and color during a time when many other plants are still dormant. The contrast between the white flowers and green leaves, along with its potential to bear fruit, makes it a diverse and attractive inclusion in various garden settings.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Thymelaeaceae
Synonyms
White Daphne, White Mezereon, White February Daphne
Common names
Daphne album, Daphne mezereum var. album.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
3-4 feet (0.9-1.2 meters)
Spread
3-4 feet (0.9-1.2 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental value: The plant is highly valued for its decorative appeal due to its beautiful pure white flowers.
- Wildlife attraction: Daphne mezereum f. alba can attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.
- Fragrance: The flowers emit a pleasing fragrance that can enhance the sensory experience of a garden or landscape.
- Seasonal interest: Provides early spring blooms, which add color and interest to gardens at a time when few other plants are flowering.
Medical Properties- Analgesic: Sometimes used for pain relief.
- Antirheumatic: Historically used in treatments for rheumatic conditions.
- Emetic: Can induce vomiting to remove ingested poisons due to its toxic nature.
- Vesicant: Causes blisters, used historically to treat warts and cancers by creating a topical irritation.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Daphne paper: The bark of the Daphne plant can be processed to create high-quality handmade paper, often used for artistic purposes due to its unique texture.
- Insect repellent: The strong fragrance of Daphne can deter certain insects, and sometimes the plant is placed near homes or gardens as a natural insect deterrent.
- Fragrance extraction: The flowers of the Daphne plant can be used in the making of natural perfumes and scents, as they have a sweet and powerful aroma.
- Dye production: The berries of the Daphne plant have been historically used to produce dyes for textiles, although this use is less common now due to availability of synthetic dyes.
- Photography: Daphne plants, particularly the f. alba with its striking white flowers, can be used as subjects or backdrops in botanical photography thanks to their visual appeal.
- Feng Shui: In some cultures, Daphne is used in Feng Shui for its energy-clearing properties; it's believed to help create a positive atmosphere.
- Tool handles: The wood of Daphne is dense and can be carved into handles for various hand tools, though it is not a common material for this purpose.
- Cultural symbol: In certain traditions, the Daphne plant symbols purity and is incorporated into cultural ceremonies or crafts for this symbolism.
- Education: Daphne plants can be used in educational settings such as botanical gardens to teach about native species and plant biology.
- Artistry: The distinct appearance of Daphne, especially when in bloom, makes it a popular choice for artists who practice botanical illustration or nature-inspired art.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant commonly known as White Daphne is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant commonly known as White Daphne is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Purity: The color white of Daphne mezereum f. alba symbolizes purity and innocence.
- Fragility: Associated with its delicate flowers, this plant represents fragility and the ephemeral nature of life.
- Creativity: The Daphne plant has a connection to the mythological figure Daphne and, by extension, the god Apollo, symbolizing artistic creativity and inspiration.
- Danger: Despite its beauty, the plant is toxic, representing the idea that something beautiful can also be dangerous.
- European Folklore: In some cultures, Daphne mezereum is associated with superstitions and folklore, sometimes symbolizing secrecy or the supernatural.
WaterWhite Daphne requires consistent moisture, but it is crucial not to overwater as this can lead to root rot. Typically, watering should occur when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. The amount needed will vary with weather conditions and soil type, but a general guide is to provide about 1 gallon of water weekly during active growth in the spring and summer. During fall and winter, reduce watering but do not let the soil dry out completely. Always water at the base of the plant, avoiding wetting the foliage to prevent fungal diseases.
LightWhite Daphne thrives best in partial shade conditions. It's ideal to place it in a spot that receives morning sunlight and is protected from the harsh afternoon sun. A north-facing or east-facing location where the plant can get bright, indirect sunlight for most of the day is optimal.
TemperatureWhite Daphne is hardy and can generally tolerate a temperature range from about 20 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It fares best in moderate temperatures and should not be subjected to extremes; prolonged exposure below 20 degrees Fahrenheit can be damaging. The ideal temperature range for thriving growth is between 50 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
PruningWhite Daphne should be pruned to maintain its shape and to remove any dead or diseased branches. Pruning is best done just after flowering in the spring to minimize disruption to the flowering cycle. As White Daphne can be sensitive, it is important to prune sparingly, removing only necessary branches. Avoid heavy pruning as the plant can be slow to recover.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFebruary Daphne (Daphne mezereum f. alba) thrives in well-drained, loamy soil with a pH between 6.0 to 7.5. A mix of two parts garden soil, one part coarse sand, and one part peat or compost is ideal. To maintain proper drainage and aeration, adding perlite or vermiculite can further benefit the soil structure.
RepottingFebruary Daphne should be repotted infrequently as it prefers not to be disturbed too often. Generally, repotting every 2-3 years or when the plant has outgrown its current pot is sufficient. Care should be taken not to damage the sensitive roots during the repotting process.
Humidity & MistingFebruary Daphne prefers moderate to high humidity levels but can tolerate lower humidity. The ideal range is 40-60%. To maintain these levels outdoors, locations with morning or evening mist can be beneficial.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, filtered light with good air circulation.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade; shelter from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleThe common name for Daphne mezereum f. alba is White Daphne. The life cycle begins with seed germination, usually in spring when the soil temperature has warmed sufficiently. Seedlings will develop into juvenile plants, establishing a root system and beginning to produce leaves. As it matures, White Daphne enters the flowering stage, typically in late winter to early spring before the leaves fully develop, bearing fragrant white flowers which will be pollinated by insects. After pollination, the plant produces red berries which contain the seeds for the next generation. Eventually, after several years, the plant will reach senescence and die, completing its lifecycle, but not before potentially dispersing seeds to create new plants.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
The most popular method of propagating the Daphne mezereum f. alba, commonly known as White Daphne, is through semi-hardwood cuttings taken in late summer. Select a healthy, non-flowering shoot and cut a 4 to 6 inch (10 to 15 cm) length, ensuring there are a few leaves on the upper part. Dip the cut end into rooting hormone to encourage root growth. Plant the cutting in a pot filled with a mix of peat and perlite, ensuring the lower nodes where the leaves were removed are buried. Cover the pot with a plastic bag to maintain humidity and place it in a warm spot with indirect light. Roots should develop within a few weeks, after which you can gradually acclimate the plant to less humidity before transplanting.
