A: Daphne odora is also called Winter daphne or Fragrant daphne, which is a small evergreen plant that grows at a slow or moderate rate. It only reaches heights of about 4 feet and about the same width. Pale pink flowers appear in the late winter or early spring. Winter or Fragrant daphne can have leaves that are solid green or variegated. The variegated variety is very attractive especially when the flowers are in bloom.

According to North Carolina State Extension the only problem with this plant is its tendency to be short-lived. I suspect this may be why our local nurseries do not stock it. Our cold hardiness zone is between 8b-9a and Daphne thrives in zones 7-9. However, I wonder if it is able to take our long season of heat and humidity since there are considerable differences in the climates of Northeast Florida and North Carolina. On the other hand, if you really like it then it won’t hurt to give it a shot now that you know it may be a bit risky. You might consider keeping it in a pot for the first few years just to see if it can become acclimated to Northeast Florida. Good luck and keep me posted on its progress. You never know, there are always exceptions to the rule and you might have that special “green thumb” that will make the difference.

0