Daphne involucrata

Family: Thymelaeaceae

What it is like

Daphne involucrata is a deciduous Shrub. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies, Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies). Suitable for: medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Height (m): 0

Where it is found

Found at elevations up to 1800 metres in Sikkim.

E. Asia - Himalayas.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 0

Medicine

Rating: 0

Other

Rating: 1

A paper is made from the bark. It is equal in quality to D. papyracea and D. bholua.

Paper: Related to the entry for Fibre, these plants have been specifically mentioned for paper making.

How it is grown

We have very little information on this species and doubt that it will be hardy in Britain. A good sandy loam suits most members of this genus. Plants are resentful of root disturbance and should be planted into their permanent positions as soon as possible. According to one report the correct name for this species is Eriosolena involucrata.

Propagating it: Seed - best sown in a greenhouse as soon as it is ripe with the pot sealed in a polythene bag to hold in the moisture. Remove this bag as soon as germination takes place. The seed usually germinates better if it is harvested 'green' (when it has fully developed but before it dries on the plant) and sown immediately. Germination should normally take place by spring, though it sometimes takes a further year. Stored seed is more problematic. It should be warm stratified for 8 - 12 weeks at 20°c followed by 12 - 14 weeks at 3°c. Germination may still take another 12 months or more at 15°c. Prick out the seedlings into individual pots as soon as they are large enough to handle. Grow the plants on in the greenhouse for their first winter and then plant out in spring after the last expected frosts. Cuttings of half-ripe wood, July/August in a frame.

Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Habit: Shrub

Hardiness:

Growth:

Soil: Medium, heavy (clay)

Shade: Semi-shade, no shade

Moisture: Moist

Things to keep in mind

All parts of the plant are poisonous. Skin contact with the sap can cause dermatitis in some people.

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Eriosolena involucrata. Van Tieghan.