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Description
Daphne Giraldii, also known as Girald’s daphne, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the family Thymelaeaceae. This plant is native to China and is popular for its beautiful flowers and pleasant fragrance. The plant has a slow growth rate and can reach up to 2 meters in height and 1.5 meters in width. It is a great addition to any garden and can be grown in containers as well.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Thymelaeaceae |
| Genus | Daphne |
Appearance
Daphne Giraldii has dark green, glossy leaves that are ovate and about 4-8 centimeters long. The flowers are fragrant and bloom in late winter or early spring. They are pink or white and grow in clusters at the end of the branches. The fruit is a red or orange drupe that is about 1 centimeter in diameter. The plant has a bushy and upright growth habit.
Care Guide
Daphne Giraldii requires well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate temperatures up to -15°C. Water the plant regularly during the growing season but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot. Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Prune the plant after flowering to maintain its shape.
Common Pests & Diseases
Daphne Giraldii is susceptible to spider mites, scale insects, and aphids. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant is also prone to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. These diseases can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Daphne Giraldii is native to China and can be found growing in forests, thickets, and rocky slopes. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of temperatures and humidity levels.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Daphne Giraldii poisonous?
A: Yes, all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested.
Q: Can Daphne Giraldii be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s roots.
Q: How often should I fertilize Daphne Giraldii?
A: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: When is the best time to prune Daphne Giraldii?
A: Prune the plant after flowering to maintain its shape.
Related Plants
- Daphne odora
- Daphne x burkwoodii
- Daphne cneorum
References
- “Daphne Giraldii.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 22 July 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=261660&isprofile=0&=&q=daphne%20giraldii>.
- “Daphne Giraldii.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 22 July 2021. <https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/12721/Daphne-Giraldii/Details>.
- “Daphne Giraldii.” The Spruce. Accessed 22 July 2021. <https://www.thespruce.com/daphne-giraldii-profile-5070358>.
