Daphne bholua

Daphne bholua is a botanical species originating from the Himalayas. It is valued for its early and remarkably fragrant lilac-pink flowering, and for its ease of cultivation in any light soil that is rich in humus and remains moist even in summer. It is adorned with beautiful dark green foliage that persists more or less in winter, but renews itself just after flowering. Its flowers perfume a whole area of the garden from the end of winter. In milder regions, it deserves to be planted near the house or not far from a passage, to enjoy its fragrance. Elsewhere, it will adapt well to pot cultivation, which allows it to be protected from severe frosts in winter.

Daphne bholua belongs to the Thymelaeaceae family. It is a large shrub native to the eastern Himalayas that grows in clear and humid undergrowth or at the edge of forests. The plant forms an erect shrub with a bushy habit, reaching an average height of 1.5m (5ft) with a spread of 1.2m (4ft), sometimes more in optimal growing conditions. When grown in a container, it will remain smaller. Its growth is quite slow. From the end of February (depending on the climate), it is adorned with pink-purple floral buds grouped in bouquets at the ends of the branches. These buds open into tubular and star-shaped flowers of a light lilac-pink colour, which emit a sweet and spicy fragrance with notes of clove. The large entire, lanceolate, leathery, and very dark and glossy green leaves are 6 to 10cm (2 to 4in) long and 1 to 2.5cm (1in) wide. They fall after flowering and are replaced by new leaves 3 weeks later. They are evergreen in winter when temperatures are mild, but can be scorched by temperatures around -5°C (23°F).

Daphne bholua naturally appreciates the same environments as camellias, azaleas and rhododendrons, with which it will form superb planting schemes. However, it is much less demanding in terms of soil pH and can be perfectly integrated into a more traditional shrub bed, but partially shaded, with Japanese quince, Forsythia, deutzia and other early-flowering shrubs. It can also be grown in a large container on a terrace or balcony. To enjoy its exceptional flowering and fragrance, it is wise to plant it near a window, terrace, path, or entrance. Its flowering branches are also very beautiful in bouquets, mixed with those of Japanese quince or Prunus.

Note: Daphnes are sometimes capricious plants, whose cultivation can be delicate if conditions are not suitable. They are reserved for experienced gardeners.