Description and General Information:
Description and General Information:
Commonly called the rose daphne or garland flower, this species is native to the mountains of central and southern Europe, extending east to SW Russia. This is a low, prostrate shrub which may reach 20-30 cm tall and up to 1 m across. The small, narrow, evergreen foliage is matt, dark green or blue-green. The cultivar 'Variegata' has white-edged leaves. In spring it produces terminal clusters of highly fragrant, 13 mm wide, pink flowers. It may bloom sporadically throughout the summer. All parts of this plant are poisonous if ingested. Popular cultivars include 'Eximia' and 'Ruby Glow' with darker pink flowers or 'Alba' with white flowers..
Blooming Season:
April in milder areas but as late as June in cooler areas. It also blooms sporadically all summer.
Cultivation:
This daphne prefers well-drained, gritty but organic-rich soil that is near neutral in pH. While it prefers full sun, it will tolerate part shade, especially in warmer areas. It is among the hardiest daphne, suitable for zone 4 and even known to survive 3b if properly protected in winter. It is reasonably drought-tolerant once established.
Propagation:
Cuttings, layering or seed
Division: N/A
Cuttings:
Semi-ripe cuttings of current-season growth may be taken from mid-summer to mid-fall.
Seed:
Sow seeds as soon as they are ripe in autumn. Remove the seed coat then nick the seeds. Leave them outside for the winter as they need a stratification period.