Daphne’s Winter Perfume
Fragrant daphne, or Daphne odora, is like a breath of spring in winter. Its compact, mounded form and glossy, evergreen leaves are attractive, but the late-winter blossoms are this shrub’s intoxicating lure. Rosy-pink or purple buds open to white or pinkish flowers with a heady scent reminiscent of gardenia or magnolia. A cut sprig in a bud vase is a remedy for winter blues. Daphne is notoriously temperamental—established plants may die unexpectedly with no apparent cause. But many gardeners think the payoff is worth the risk. Winter daphne usually grows about 3 to 4 feet tall and 2 to 4 feet wide. It is hardy in zones 7–9. The variegated variety ‘Aureomarginata’, whose leaves are edged in yellow or cream, is reportedly hardier than the species. Plant daphne in well-drained soil in sun to part-shade. If you have more than one plant, try a different location for each, to increase your chances of success.