By Kate Chinnick

Daphne odora

Native to China
Widely cultivated in Japan
Evergreen shrub growing to 1.2 metres
Prefers a part shady position (may need shelter in colder areas)
Flowers are rose / purple opening to white in late Autumn to early Spring
“Alba” cultivar has cream / white flowers smelling of lemons
Flowers are heavily perfumed
Leaves are dark green and glossy or edged in yellow (Aureo-marginata)
Propagate from soft tip cuttings in summer or layering