Overview

Danae racemosa is a bushy shrub in the genus Danae, part of the Asparagaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Danae racemosa grows best in shade and partial shade, and tolerates well-drained soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include shade garden, woodland garden and container. It is native to Iran, Lebanon-Syria, Transcaucasus and Türkiye.

About

Danae racemosa, commonly known as Alexandrian laurel, is a shrub in the Asparagaceae family. It thrives in sheltered, shady positions with moist, well-drained soil and can tolerate dry shade once established. This cultivar produces fragrant flowers and is suitable for shade gardens, woodland gardens, and containers. It is hardy in the UK to H5 and benefits from light pruning after flowering to maintain its shape. Propagation is typically done by semi-ripe cuttings in summer. The plant is toxic and native to regions including Iran, Lebanon-Syria, Transcaucasus, and Türkiye.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Danae racemosa

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Danae

Sunlight

shade, partial shade

Soil type

well-drained

Soil pH

Acid, Alkaline, Neutral

Soil moisture

moist

Aspect

East-facing, South-facing, West-facing

Exposure

sheltered

UK hardiness

H5

Plant details

Danae racemosa size, habit and characteristics

Plant type

shrub

Habit

Bushy

Foliage

Evergreen

Suggested uses

shade garden, woodland garden, container

Native to

Iran, Lebanon-Syria, Transcaucasus, Türkiye

Fragrance

fragrant flowers

Toxicity

toxic

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Danae racemosa

Cultivation

Prefers sheltered, shady positions with moist, well-drained soil. Tolerates dry shade once established.

Pruning

Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape.

Propagation

Propagation by semi-ripe cuttings in summer.

Pest resistance

Generally pest-free

Disease resistance

Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions