Northwest Blooms · Shrubs
Daphne odora
Winter Daphne
- Family
- Thymelaeaceae
- Height
- 3 to 4 feet
- Width
- 2 to 4 feet
- Flower color
- Clusters of pink or white blooms
- Foliage color
- Dark green, leathery leaves
- Bloom time
- Late winter to early spring
- Light
- Prefers partial shade to full sun
- Water
- Regular watering, especially during dry spells
- Maintenance
- Requires minimal maintenance once established
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 7 to 9
- Wildlife
- The fragrant flowers attract pollinators like bees and butterflies
About this plant
Daphne odora is a lovely evergreen shrub from China and Japan, prized for its highly fragrant clusters of pink or white blooms that appear in late winter to early spring. The sweet, citrus-like scent of its flowers perfumes the air, while its dark green, leathery, lance-shaped leaves add year-round interest. Preferring partial shade to full sun and regular watering, especially during dry spells, Winter Daphne thrives in well-draining soil and sheltered spots protected from harsh winter winds.
Minimal maintenance is needed once established, with pruning after flowering to shape the plant and remove dead or damaged branches. Attractive to pollinators like bees and butterflies, Winter Daphne is toxic if ingested, so it should be kept away from children and pets. Often grown as a specimen plant or in mixed borders, its compact size and attractive foliage also make it suitable for container gardening.
Works well in
Shade Gardens · Fragrant Gardens · Woodland Gardens · Paths & Walkways
Companion plants
Skimmia · Japanese maple · Ajuga · Autumn fern · Snowdrops · Hellebore
Design tip
Winter fragrance makes this compact evergreen especially valuable near an entrance or frequently used walkway, where its perfume can be enjoyed when little else is blooming. A sheltered setting also suits its woodland character, with glossy foliage providing a handsome backdrop for the pale flowers.
