Daphne pseudomezereum
Family: Thymelaeaceae
What it is like
Daphne pseudomezereum is a deciduous Shrub growing to 1.5 m (5ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in leaf from October to July, in flower from March to April. 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 and neutral soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland). It prefers moist soil.
Height (m): 1.5
Where it is found
Mountainous areas.
E. Asia - C. and S. Japan.
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 fibrous bark.
Paper: Related to the entry for Fibre, these plants have been specifically mentioned for paper making.
How it is grown
Prefers a cool lime-free soil that is well-drained. Plants are summer-deciduous. Their flowers are produced in terminal clusters. Plants are resentful of root disturbance and should be planted into their permanent positions as soon as possible.
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 Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;
Habit: Shrub
Hardiness: 5-9
Growth:
Soil: Medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-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.