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Description
Daphne Cneorum, commonly known as the Garland Flower or the Dwarf Daphne, is a small, evergreen shrub that belongs to the Thymelaeaceae family. It is native to the mountainous regions of Europe and Asia, and is widely appreciated for its fragrant and beautiful blooms. The plant can grow up to 1-2 feet tall and spreads up to 2-3 feet wide. It produces clusters of pink, fragrant flowers in late spring and early summer, followed by red berries in the fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Thymelaeaceae |
| Genus | Daphne |
Appearance
Daphne Cneorum has dark green, glossy leaves that are oval-shaped and about 1-2 inches long. The leaves are arranged alternately on the stem and are slightly twisted. The flowers are small, about 1/2 inch across, and grow in clusters at the end of the branches. They are pink in color and have a delightful fragrance that is described as sweet and spicy. The plant produces red berries in the fall, which are about 1/4 inch in diameter and are toxic if ingested.
Care Guide
To care for Daphne Cneorum, it is important to provide the plant with well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers a slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.0 and 6.5. It also needs to be watered regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. The plant should be fertilized in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer that is high in phosphorus. Daphne Cneorum prefers partial shade or filtered sunlight, and can be grown in hardiness zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Daphne Cneorum is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including spider mites, scale insects, and leaf spot. Spider mites can be controlled by spraying the plant with water or insecticidal soap, while scale insects can be removed by hand or with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Leaf spot can be prevented by avoiding overhead watering and providing good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Daphne Cneorum is native to the mountainous regions of Europe and Asia, where it grows in rocky areas and on mountain slopes. The plant prefers well-drained soil and a slightly acidic pH. It is often used in rock gardens, border plantings, and as a ground cover.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Daphne Cneorum poisonous?
A: Yes, the red berries of the plant are toxic if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Daphne Cneorum?
A: The plant should be watered regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.
Q: What is the ideal pH for Daphne Cneorum?
A: The plant prefers a slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.0 and 6.5.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Daphne Cneorum?
A: Daphne Cneorum can be grown in hardiness zones 4-8.
Related Plants
- Daphne odora
- Daphne mezereum
- Daphne x burkwoodii
- Daphne pontica
References
- “Daphne cneorum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org
- “Daphne cneorum.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk
- “Daphne cneorum.” University of Connecticut Plant Database. https://hort.uconn.edu/
