Flax-Leaved Daphne
Daphne gnidium
Family: Thymelaeaceae
What it is like
Daphne gnidium is an evergreen Shrub growing to 1.5 m (5ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in leaf all year, in flower from June to July. 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, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.
Height (m): 1.5
Where it is found
Grows with other evergreen shrubs on shallow, stony soils, often on hillsides.
S. Europe, N. Africa and W. Asia.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 0
Medicine
Rating: 1
The plant contains toxic compounds that are being investigated for anti-leukaemia effects.
Cancer: Used in the treatment of cancer.
Other
Rating:
Scented Plants: Plants noted for their scent
How it is grown
Prefers a well-drained but moisture-retentive slightly acid to slightly alkaline soil. A good sandy loam suits most members of the genus. This species is not very hardy in Britain, tolerating temperatures down to about -5°c, it should succeed outdoors in the milder areas of the country. Plants are resentful of root disturbance and should be planted into their permanent positions as soon as possible. The flowers, which are produced in terminal clusters, are sweetly scented.
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. Root cuttings, December in a greenhouse.
Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;
Habit: Shrub
Hardiness: 7-10
Growth:
Soil: Medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade, no shade
Moisture: Dry, moist
Things to keep in mind
All parts of the plant are poisonous. Skin contact with the sap can cause dermatitis in some people.