Daphne Plants

Daphne plants grow best when given the right spot from day one. Plant it into moist but well drained soil, keep the roots cool with a mulch, and avoid disturbing it once it settles. Regular watering in the first season helps it get established, but after that it prefers life on the drier side. They dislike heavy feeding, so a light spring feed with a balanced fertiliser is enough. Most importantly, don’t move it unless you absolutely have to, as they resent root disturbance.

Choose a sheltered, partially shaded spot with free draining soil. Daphne plants love morning sun and afternoon shade, or dappled light under a tree. Avoid exposed, windy positions and keep it away from areas that get waterlogged in winter.

Many Daphne varieties enjoy slightly acidic soil, but they are generally tolerant of neutral conditions too. As long as the soil drains freely and isn’t strongly alkaline, they usually grow happily. If you garden on chalk-based soil, add plenty of organic matter when planting or consider growing in a pot with ericaceous compost.

Many common garden varieties are evergreen, keeping their neat foliage all year and offering structure even in the depths of winter. A few varieties are semi evergreen or deciduous, but the majority that gardeners grow in the UK hold their leaves well.

Yes, Daphne plants are hardy across most of the UK. They cope with winter cold far better than many people expect, especially in free-draining soil. The main risk is waterlogging in winter, not low temperatures, so good drainage is key.

Yes. All parts of Daphne are considered poisonous if eaten, including the berries. Most dogs avoid it due to its bitter taste, but it’s still sensible to plant it out of reach of curious pets and children.