Daphne odora commonly known as winter daphne is a highly sought-after evergreen shrub prized for its extremely fragrant flowers that bloom in late winter and early spring. With its sweet floral perfume and ability to flower when little else is in bloom, it’s no wonder gardeners want to get their hands on these plants. But finding daphne odora for sale near you can sometimes be a challenge.
In this article, we’ll look at exactly what makes Daphne odora so desirable where to find it for sale locally and tips for successfully growing this garden gem.
Why Daphne Odora is So Popular
Native to China, Japan and Korea, Daphne odora has been cultivated in gardens for centuries, especially in Europe and England. It was first introduced to American gardeners in the late 1700s.
Here are some of the stand-out features that make Daphne such an in-demand plant
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Deliciously fragrant flowers – Daphne is prized for its incredible fragrance, often described as a sweet, spicy, honey-like perfume. The clusters of small, star-shaped pink or white flowers emerge along the stems in late winter or very early spring, when little else is blooming.
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Evergreen foliage – Daphne odora maintains its shiny, deep green foliage all year long, creating structure and interest in the garden.
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Compact form – These shrubs grow slowly to an average size of 3-4 feet tall and wide, making them perfect for placement along foundations, near entryways or for edging garden beds.
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Shade tolerance – While Daphne prefers partial sun, it also does quite well in full shade. Finding plants that thrive in shade can sometimes be a challenge.
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Cold hardiness – Once established, Daphne odora are winter hardy even in very cold climates (USDA zones 7-9). Flower buds can withstand temperatures down to -25°F.
The stunning fragrance, early season flowers and versatility of Daphne odora make it a prized addition to many gardens. When you find one for sale, it’s easy to see why gardeners eagerly snatch them up.
Where to Find Daphne Odora for Sale
Daphne shrubs are so popular that they sometimes sell out quickly at garden centers and nurseries. Here are some ideas of the best places to check when you are looking for Daphne odora for sale near you:
Local Independent Garden Centers
The first place to look for desirable plants like Daphne is your local independent garden center. While they may not carry them year-round, many receive shipments of Daphne in early spring in anticipation of high demand. Check at a few different local nurseries to see who has them in stock. Going early in the season gives you the best chance of finding one.
Big Box Stores
Large home improvement stores like Lowe’s and Home Depot sometimes carry Daphne odora, generally in early spring.Availability can vary by location and sell out quickly once they get them in stock. Check back frequently if you don’t spot any on initial visits. Going early in the morning or calling ahead may help you get first pick.
Online Mail Order Nurseries
Ordering Daphne odora from online mail-order nurseries is a convenient way to get the exact variety you want shipped right to your door. Reputable online sellers like Wilson Bros Gardens, Nature Hills Nursery and Wayside Gardens offer a good selection of potted Daphne odora varieties that are carefully packaged and shipped at the proper planting time for your zone.
Local Plant Swaps
Check for local plant swaps, sales and exchanges through gardening clubs, community groups or on social media. Gardeners often share prized plants like Daphne with others. It’s a great way to find unusual varieties you may not see at standard nurseries.
Specialty Catalogs
Certain plant catalogs specialize in rare or hard-to-find specimens like Daphne. Catalogs from specialty growers like Forestfarm and Heronswood offer unique selections of Daphne odora that garden collectors covet.
Growing Tips for Daphne Odora
Once you track down Daphne odora for sale, follow these tips for successfully growing and caring for your new shrub:
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Site in partial shade or areas with morning sun and afternoon shade. Provide good air circulation.
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Prepare the planting hole well by amending the soil with compost and organic material. Daphne hates wet, soggy soil.
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Water well after planting and then allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Too much moisture can lead to root rot.
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Apply a 2-4 inch layer of mulch around the base of plants to maintain even soil moisture and temperature. Keep mulch away from stems.
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Feed plants with a slow-release fertilizer for acid-loving plants in early spring. Avoid high nitrogen fertilizers.
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Prune immediately after flowering is finished by selectively removing dead or damaged branches.
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Monitor for common Daphne pests like aphids, scale and spider mites and treat any infestations promptly.
With proper placement and care, Daphne odora will thrive for years, delighting you with its intensely fragrant floral display each spring.
Finding these coveted plants for sale near you just takes a bit of persistence and perfect timing. Check garden centers, nurseries and online sources starting early in the season for the best availability. Since they remain in high demand year after year, if you don’t find any this season, start looking again next winter. The incredible fragrance and beauty of Daphne odora is worth the search!
DAPHNES IN BELLEVUE, WASHINGTON
Hello, Daphne! These shrubs have flowers that smell great and start to bloom in the winter. They make us feel better about the world. All daphnes are perennial shrubs that do well in cool weather. Even though daphnes bloom in late winter or early spring, some types will keep blooming well into fall.
Please email us to check if the variety you want is in stock, as our Bellevue, WA nursery’s stock changes often. Bloom times and sizes are approximate. Sizes indicated are size in 10 years unless noted differently.
Daphne odora – Best Fragrant Shrub?
FAQ
When should I plant Daphne odora?
What is the most fragrant Daphne odora?
Where is the best place to plant Daphne odora?
What is the difference between Daphne odora and Perfume Princess?
What is Daphne odora?
Daphne odora is a low shrub that forms a dense 1m growth with thick leathery dark green leaves. It is highly prized for its deliciously fragrant flowers that appear in late winter to spring. Daphne odora is the most commonly grown Daphne in Australia.
Is Daphne odora an evergreen plant?
Daphne odora is an evergreen shrub with evergreen foliage. It has larger than normal blooms and is slow growing. Uses: This delightful shrub is ideal for planting in containers close to a doorway, where you will appreciate the amazing heady fragrance as you go by.
Where can I buy winter daphne plants?
Rest assured, when you buy winter daphne plants for sale online from Wilson Bros Gardens we safely ship the highest quality container-grown specimens that are ready upon arrival to plant and thrive for years to come in your gardens – Guaranteed! Wilson Bros Gardens brings you awesome every day!
Is it difficult to grow Daphne odora?
Daphne odora is considered somewhat finicky to grow. Despite this, gardeners are determined to grow it due to its high prized value. The plant may suddenly droop and die as if scalded.
Are Daphne bushes evergreen?
, are superstar flowering shrubs. The fragrant flowers of both fill the garden with intoxicating perfume. Very easy to grow, Daphne are wonderful evergreen bushes to add sensory appeal around shady patio gardens, decks, porches and other outdoor living spaces.
Are Daphne plants edible?
Daphne plants are loved for their attractive foliage, the fragrance that some of the most popular varieties boast, and their decorative non-edible fruits. For sale at Wayside Gardens.