Introducing...
Daphne
Daphnes are popular for their intensely fragrant blooms, usually produced in winter or spring. Many of these shrubs are compact, slow growing and low maintenance, so are ideal for even the smallest gardens. Plant them near paths and doorways or at the front of borders, where it's easy to enjoy their rich fragrance.
Looks
These small or medium-sized shrubs produce clusters of richly fragrant pink, white or yellow flowers. They bloom at different times of year, mainly within the period of late winter to summer. Most are evergreen, although some may lose their leaves in winter.
Likes
Most daphnes are happy in partial shade, in neutral or slightly alkaline soil. They like moist, free-draining conditions. Typically hardy, they still love a warm, sheltered location.
Dislikes
They dislike soggy or dry soil. Most are deep rooted, so aren't suitable for planting long-term in containers and prefer not to be moved once settled into the ground. Avoid pruning, as this can cause die-back.
Did you know?
The nectar-rich flowers attract bees and other pollinating insects. Daphnes that bloom in late winter and early spring are a particularly valuable source, when little else is in flower.
Growing guide
How to grow daphnes
All the information you’ll need to grow and care for daphnes in your garden.
Daphne we recommend
Daphne odora 'Aureomarginata' (v)
gold-edged winter daphne
- 1–1.5 metres
- 1–1.5 metres
Daphne cneorum 'Eximia'
garland flower 'Eximia'
- 0.1–0.5 metres
- 0.5–1 metres
Daphne odora 'Aureomarginata' (v)
gold-edged winter daphne
- 1–1.5 metres
- 1–1.5 metres
Daphne cneorum 'Eximia'
garland flower 'Eximia'
- 0.1–0.5 metres
- 0.5–1 metres
Useful advice
Containers: winter selection
Plants for winter interest
Shrubs: evergreen by size
Shrubs: evergreen for specific situations
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.