Daphne transatlantica
Daphne transatlantica · Thymelaeaceae
⚠️ Chiens, chats et enfants : plante entière contient daphnétoxine. Ingestion provoque brûlures buccales et troubles digestifs graves.
The gardener's calendar
Daphne transatlantica is in full bloom: enjoy it, watch watering in hot weather and let spent flowers feed pollinators before pruning.
ID card
- Family
- Thymelaeaceae
- Type
- Ornamental shrub
- Mature height
- Approximately 120 cm
- Flowering
- April to September (fragrant flowers)
- Exposure
- Full sun
- Water requirements
- Moderate
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Caution
- Toxic to pets
✓ Taxonomy verifiedSource: AI estimate · hardiness: reliability medium.
Expert tips
The key tip
Daphne transatlantica flowers for a long time in well-drained soil, in soft full sun, without unnecessary transplanting.
The common mistake
Excess standing water, especially in winter, strongly promotes decline.
The pro's trick
At planting, add coarse sand or gravel to the hole to ensure impeccable drainage.
Seasonal watch
In autumn and winter, stay vigilant about soil moisture after rain: this is when it rots.
Care
Exposure
The transatlantic daphne thrives in full sun, where it develops more generous flowering and a more compact form. It tolerates light partial shade in warm climates, but risks becoming leggy with insufficient light. Choose a well-exposed location to optimize fragrant flowering.
Watering
Water regularly during the first year of establishment to promote rooting. Once established, the plant tolerates moderate dry periods. Avoid excess moisture and water accumulation at the base, which promotes root diseases. Deep watering rather than surface watering is recommended.
Soil and planting
Daphne appreciates well-drained soil, slightly acidic to neutral. Amend the soil with potting mix or compost at planting if the ground is too compact or clayey. Good drainage is essential; if necessary, create a small mound or use a layer of gravel at the bottom of the planting hole.
Pruning and structure
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a harmonious shape and encourage branching. Remove dead or misplaced branches in spring. Avoid severe pruning, to which daphne responds poorly: prefer gentle and regular interventions.
Fertilizing
A balanced fertilizer application in spring is generally sufficient. You can use a flowering shrub fertilizer at bud break. Avoid excessive nitrogen, which promotes dense foliage at the expense of flowering.
Health and pests
Daphne is relatively hardy but can suffer from poor drainage. Watch for root rot in poorly drained soil. Scale insects and spider mites can occasionally attack during dry periods; improve humidity by misting.
Did you know?
The Daphne genus is famous in Greek mythology: the nymph Daphné, pursued by Apollo, was said to be transformed into a laurel tree (daphne) by the gods to escape him. Several daphne species possess an intense, sweet fragrance, particularly during winter flowering, which made them highly prized plants in aristocratic European gardens.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Garland flowerDaphne cneorum
- Oriental paperbushEdgeworthia chrysantha
- Winter daphneDaphne odora
- Wikstroemia gemmataWikstroemia gemmata
- MezereonDaphne mezereum
- Spurge laurelDaphne laureola
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.