Botanical Name: Daphne odora
Family: Thymelaeaceae
Kingdom: Plantae
Order: Malvales
Genus: Daphne
Species: D. odora
Synonyms: D. indica. Hort. D. japonica. Paxton. D. sinensis
Common Names: Winter Daphne, Fragrant Daphne
Other common names: Gold-edged winter daphne
Habiitat: Daphne odora is native to E. Asia – W. China, Japan It grows in the shade of upland trees around 1000 metres.
Description:
Daphne odora is an evergreen Shrub growing to 1.5 m (5ft) by 1.5 m (5ft) at a slow rate, with leathery dark green leaves narrowly edged with yellow, and clusters of fragrant purplish-pink flowers, white within, in early spring. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies, Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies).
Cultivation:
Grow in any fertile, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil in a sheltered position in sun or partial shade. Not reliably hardy in exposed conditions. Resents transplanting
Propagation:
Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings or grafting
Medicinal Uses:
The flowers and the stems are anodyne, antiphlogistic, antispasmodic, depurative and ophthalmic. A decoction is used in the treatment of backache, myalgia, skin diseases, poor vision etc. A decoction of the leaves is used in the treatment of laryngitis and sore throats. . A decoction of the roots and leaves is used in the treatment of sore throat and caked breast.
Other Uses:
The flowers are very fragrant, they are put in sachets and used for pot-pourri. They are also used to perfume water. The cultivar ‘Aureo-marginata’ can be used as a ground cover when planted about 1 metre apart each way.
Known Hazards : All parts of the plant are poisonous. Skin contact with the sap can cause dermatitis in some people.
Disclaimer : The information presented herein is intended for educational purposes only. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplement, it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider.
Resources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Daphne_odora
https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Daphne+odora
https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/56422/Gold-edged-winter-daphne/Details
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