Daphne — 7 species

Daphne is a genus of compact, slow-growing evergreen and deciduous shrubs prized above all for their intensely fragrant late-winter to early-spring flowers. Species such as Daphne odora, D. odora 'Aureomarginata', D. mezereum, and D. cneorum thrive in partial shade — morning sun with afternoon protection is ideal — in moist, very well-drained, neutral to slightly alkaline soil; they dislike wet feet and suffer in waterlogged ground. Every part of all Daphne species, including bark, leaves, flowers, and berries, is toxic to cats and dogs; keep pets well away.