Northwest Blooms · Shrubs
Daphne wolongensis
Wolong Daphne
- Family
- Thymelaeaceae
- Height
- 3 to 4 feet
- Width
- 3 to 4 feet
- Flower color
- Soft pink buds opening to pale pink to nearly white tubular flowers
- Foliage color
- Narrow lance shaped glossy deep green leaves
- Bloom time
- Early to mid spring, often March to April
- Light
- Partial shade to light full sun
- Water
- Average moist well drained soil
- Maintenance
- Moderate; avoid heavy pruning and trim lightly after flowering while protecting roots from disturbance
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 6 to 9
- Wildlife
- Bees, butterflies and other pollinating insects
About this plant
Daphne wolongensis produces clusters of soft pink to pale rose flowers in spring, each bloom opening with narrow petals and releasing a light fragrance along the stems. The blossoms appear among slender, lance-shaped leaves that form a neat covering of fresh green foliage through the growing season. The narrow leaves create a fine texture along the branches, giving the plant a refined appearance.
Native to mountainous regions of western China, particularly Sichuan Province, Daphne wolongensis grows in woodland habitats. In gardens it brings delicate seasonal interest to shaded borders and woodland plantings where the soft pink flowers and fine foliage add gentle color and texture.
Works well in
Shade Gardens · Fragrant Gardens · Woodland Gardens · Paths & Walkways
Companion plants
Mahonia · Rodgersia · Primrose · Japanese aralia · Bergenia · Maidenhair fern
Design tip
Slender foliage gives this daphne a finer, more delicate texture than broader-leaved woodland shrubs. Pairing it with plants that have rounded or deeply divided leaves creates an appealing contrast, while its softly colored spring flowers add a gentle transition into the new growing season.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen at the Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden.
