Daphne retusa

Small creeping shrubs or shrubs, typically found in mountainous regions, are known to retain their foliage during winters. However, these are not easy to cultivate and are often specialist plants that only a few amateurs can grow successfully in open ground for more than 3-4 years. These plants have superficial roots that can wither if exposed to bare soil that warms up too quickly, leading to sudden death. Acclimatising these shrubs to lowland areas is a real challenge and requires careful attention from enthusiasts.

The small, highly branched shrub has hairy young branches and features thick, elongated, dark green, and shiny evergreen leaves. It also has fragrant white flowers with pink shades arranged in bouquets at the ends of the branches.

Note: Daphnes can be high-maintenance and difficult to cultivate. They are best suited for experienced gardeners.