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Description
Daphne Genkwa, also known as the Lilac Daphne, is a deciduous shrub native to China. It belongs to the family Thymelaeaceae and is known for its beautiful, fragrant purple flowers that bloom in early spring. The plant grows up to 1-1.5 meters tall and has a spreading, bushy habit.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Thymelaeaceae |
| Genus | Daphne |
Appearance
The leaves of Daphne Genkwa are glossy, dark green and have a lanceolate shape. The flowers are tubular, and the petals are fused into a bell-shaped corolla. They have a unique, pleasant fragrance and are usually purple in color. The plant produces small, black berries after flowering.
Care Guide
To ensure healthy growth of Daphne Genkwa, follow these care tips:
- Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply once a week during the growing season.
- Fertilization: Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Apply again in mid-summer if necessary.
- Soil: Plant in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Plant in a location that receives full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Daphne Genkwa is hardy in USDA zones 6-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Daphne Genkwa is susceptible to several pests and diseases:
- Aphids: These sap-sucking insects can cause stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing of leaves and webbing on the plant. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Root rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can cause wilting and yellowing of leaves. Ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown spots on leaves. Remove infected leaves and treat with a fungicide.
Habitat
Daphne Genkwa is native to central and southern China, where it grows in rocky areas and on hillsides. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Daphne Genkwa poisonous?
A: Yes, all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested.
Q: Can Daphne Genkwa be grown in containers?
A: Yes, it can be grown in a container with well-draining soil and placed in a location that receives full sun to partial shade.
Q: How often should I prune Daphne Genkwa?
A: Prune after flowering to shape the plant and remove any dead or diseased wood.
Q: How long does it take for Daphne Genkwa to bloom?
A: It blooms in early spring, usually in March or April.
Related Plants
- Daphne odora (Winter Daphne)
- Daphne x transatlantica (Eternal Fragrance)
- Daphne burkwoodii (Burkwood Daphne)
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Thymelaeaceae. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/Thymelaeaceae/Thymelaeaceae.aspx
- University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture. (n.d.). Lilac daphne. Retrieved from https://www.uaex.edu/yard-garden/resource-library/plant-database/shrubs/lilac-daphne.aspx
- University of Connecticut Plant Database. (n.d.). Daphne genkwa. Retrieved from https://hort.uconn.edu/detail.php?pid=133
