Contents
Description
Daphne Bholua, also known as Himalayan Daphne or Nepalese paper plant, is a flowering shrub native to the Himalayan region in Asia. It belongs to the family Thymelaeaceae and has a strong, sweet fragrance. The plant is popular among gardeners for its attractive flowers and foliage, making it an excellent choice for ornamental purposes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Thymelaeaceae |
| Genus | Daphne |
Appearance
Daphne Bholua is a deciduous shrub that can grow up to 4 meters tall. Its leaves are dark green, glossy, and lance-shaped, measuring about 7-14 cm long and 2-3 cm wide. The flowers are tubular and bell-shaped, with a diameter of about 1 cm, and have a pink to white color. They bloom in clusters of 6-12 flowers, which are produced in late winter or early spring.
Care Guide
Water: Daphne Bholua requires moderate watering, especially during the growing season. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged.Fertilization: The plant requires little fertilization, but a balanced fertilizer can be applied in early spring.Soil: Daphne Bholua prefers well-draining, acidic soil that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun exposure.Hardiness Zones: Daphne Bholua is hardy in USDA zones 7-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Daphne Bholua is susceptible to pests such as aphids, spider mites, and scale insects. It can also be affected by diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. Regular inspection and proper care can prevent these issues.
Habitat
Daphne Bholua is native to the Himalayan region, where it grows in forests and shrublands. It prefers high-altitude areas and can tolerate cold temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Daphne Bholua toxic to pets?A: Yes, Daphne Bholua can be toxic to pets if ingested. It contains a toxin that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other symptoms.Q: How often should I prune my Daphne Bholua?A: Pruning should be done after flowering, and only if necessary. It is best to avoid heavy pruning, as it can reduce the plant’s blooming potential.Q: Can Daphne Bholua be grown in containers?A: Yes, Daphne Bholua can be grown in containers, but it may require more frequent watering and fertilization.Q: How long does it take for Daphne Bholua to bloom?A: Daphne Bholua typically blooms in its second or third year of growth.
Related Plants
- Daphne Cneorum
- Daphne Genkwa
- Daphne Odora
- Daphne Tangutica
References
- “Daphne Bholua.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=e713.
- “Daphne Bholua.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/4492/Daphne-bholua/Details.
- “Daphne Bholua.” The Spruce, www.thespruce.com/grow-daphne-bholua-plants-1402969.
