Daphne (plant)

Daphne philippi1

Daphne jezoensis 6

Daphne pseudomezereum (flower s2)

Spurge Laurel (Daphne laureola) - Flickr - gailhampshire

Daphne blagayana (33946067631)

Daphne glomerata Lam

Daphne is a genus of deciduous and evergreen shrubs in the family Thymelaeaceae. The genus comprises about 70-95 species, native to Asia, Europe, and north Africa. They are noted for their scented flowers and poisonous berries.

Description

Daphne plants are small shrubs, typically growing to 1.5 meters tall. They have narrow, lanceolate leaves and produce clusters of small, tubular flowers. The flowers are often fragrant and can be white, pink, or purple. The fruit is a berry, which is often brightly colored and contains a single seed.

Habitat

Daphne species are found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, rocky areas, and alpine regions. They prefer well-drained soils and can often be found in calcareous environments.

Cultivation

Daphne plants are popular in gardens for their attractive flowers and fragrance. They require well-drained soil and a position in full sun or partial shade. Some species are more tolerant of cold than others, and care should be taken to select a species suitable for the local climate.

Toxicity

All parts of the Daphne plant are toxic if ingested, with the berries being particularly poisonous. Symptoms of poisoning include burning sensations in the mouth, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to coma or death. Handling the plant can also cause skin irritation in some individuals.

Species

Some notable species of Daphne include:

• Daphne mezereum - commonly known as February Daphne or Mezereon.
• Daphne odora - known as Winter Daphne.
• Daphne laureola - commonly called Spurge-laurel.
• Daphne cneorum - known as Garland Flower.

Related Pages

• Thymelaeaceae
• Daphne mezereum
• Daphne odora
• Daphne laureola
• Daphne cneorum