About
Daphne gnidium, the flax-leaved daphne, is a slow-growing, erect, evergreen shrub to around 1.5 m with narrowly oval, silvery-green leaves. Small, fragrant, white flowers are produced in clusters from late spring to early autumn, sometimes followed by small, red berries. An ornamental and reliable daphne for a sunny, sheltered, well-drained position.
About the genus
Daphne are deciduous or evergreen shrubs with simple, often leathery leaves and clusters of small, usually intensely fragrant, tubular, four-lobed flowers in white, pink, purple or yellow, often followed by colourful, fleshy berries. Among the most treasured of all garden shrubs for their fragrance.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHNeutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageEvergreen, Semi evergreen
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Mediterranean climate plants
Native toEurope, N Africa, SW Asia
FragranceFlower
ToxicityTOXIC if eaten, skin irritant. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling 5324,daphne-jasminea,Daphne jasminea,jasmine-flowered daphne,Daphne jasminea
Care notes
CultivationThis species needs excellent drainage, a sandy loam with a roughly neutral pH is ideal. May need winter protection. See daphne cultivation for more details
PruningSee pruning groups 1 and 8; pruning is best kept to a minimum
PropagationPropagate by semi-hardwood cuttings in summer, or by grafting in winter
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely), phytophthora root rot, fungal leaf spot and virus diseases