Does Daphne Lose Its Leaves?

Evergreen Daphnes

• February daphne is a broadleaf evergreen shrub that is noted for its fragrant pink-purple and white flower clusters. These appear in late winter to very early spring on a plant that can reach about 5 feet in height. The "Aureomarginata" cultivar also features cream to yellow leaf margins. Bholua daphne (Daphne bholua), hardy in USDA zones 7 through 9 is generally evergreen and grows 6 to 12 feet tall. It blooms at roughly the same time as February daphne and features similar fragrant flower clusters.

Deciduous Daphnes

• Burkwood's daphne is a deciduous species that has given rise to popular varieties including "Carol Mackie" (Daphne x burkwoodii "Carol Mackie"), with variegated leaves; "Silver Edge" (Daphne x burkwoodii "Silver Edge"), also variegated; and "Somerset" (Daphne x burkwoodii "Somerset"). All are small to medium sized shrubs that bloom in the spring and feature fragrant pink and white flowers. Mezereon daphne (Daphne mezereum), hardy in USDA zones 5 through 8 is a deciduous shrub that blooms in late winter on leafless branches. The shrubs are 4 feet tall by 3 feet wide. Fragrant flowers are followed by red fruits.

Uses

• Evergreen and deciduous daphnes have a variety of uses. The early-blooming evergreen species are especially good for inclusion in gardens where four seasons of interest are important. Mezereon daphne and Burkwood's daphne attract birds with their red fruits, making them valuable in wildlife or habitat landscapes. Rock gardeners can grow little alpine daphne (Dapne alpina), hardy in USDA zones 6 through 8. Alpine daphne is deciduous and grows only 20 inches tall, with a nearly equal spread. It bears small clusters of white, scented flowers in the spring.

Culture

• Whether deciduous or evergreen, daphnes thrive in well-drained, consistently moist soil. Gardeners with heavy clay soil should either amend it before planting or install daphnes in raised beds or containers appropriate to specific species sizes. The shrubs do best in part shade. Full sun is likely to cause leaf burn. If possible, site daphnes in protected spots, as they are susceptible to damage from cold winter winds, even when planted within their recommended hardiness zones.