Daphniphyllum Pentandrum

Description

Daphniphyllum Pentandrum, commonly known as the Himalayan daphne or five-stamen daphne, is a slow-growing evergreen shrub or small tree that belongs to the family Daphniphyllaceae. It is native to the Himalayan region of China, India, Nepal, and Bhutan. The plant can grow up to 8 meters tall and has a rounded, bushy form. It has glossy, leathery leaves that are dark green in color and measure about 10-20cm in length. The flowers of this plant are small, white, and have a pleasant fragrance. The fruits are small, black, and contain a single seed.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Himalayan daphne has a dense, bushy form and can grow up to 8 meters tall. Its glossy, leathery leaves are dark green in color and measure about 10-20cm in length. The plant produces small, white, fragrant flowers that bloom in the spring. The fruits are small, black, and contain a single seed. The bark of the plant is smooth and grayish-brown in color.

Care Guide

The Himalayan daphne is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for keeping your plant healthy:Water: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged. Water it regularly during the growing season, but reduce watering during the winter months.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year with a slow-release fertilizer in the spring.Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic.Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full shade.Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

The Himalayan daphne is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it may be susceptible to scale insects and spider mites. If you notice any signs of infestation, treat the plant with a horticultural oil or insecticidal soap.

Habitat

The Himalayan daphne is native to the Himalayan region of China, India, Nepal, and Bhutan. It grows in the understory of forests and prefers moist, well-draining soil.

Question and Answer

Q: Is the Himalayan daphne toxic to pets?
A: Yes, the plant is toxic to pets if ingested.Q: How often should I fertilize my Himalayan daphne?
A: You should fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer.Q: Can I grow the Himalayan daphne indoors?
A: The plant prefers to be grown outdoors in partial shade to full shade.Q: How tall can the Himalayan daphne grow?
A: The plant can grow up to 8 meters tall.

Related Plants

Here are some related plants to the Himalayan daphne:

• Daphniphyllum macropodum
• Daphniphyllum himalayense
• Daphniphyllum teijsmannii

References

• “Daphniphyllum pentandrum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286302&isprofile=0&basic=daphniphyllum. Accessed 26 Aug. 2021.
• “Daphniphyllum pentandrum.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/12779/daphniphyllum-pentandrum/details. Accessed 26 Aug. 2021.
• “Daphniphyllum pentandrum.” The Plant List, www.theplantlist.org/tpl1.1/record/kew-2758712. Accessed 26 Aug. 2021.