Daphne laureola subsp. philippi

The Daphne laureola Philippi is a compact form of a small Pyrenean shrub also known as daphne laureola or spurge laurel, preferring the dappled light of limestone undergrowth and tolerating summer drought very well. This daphne seduces with its long, fragrant flowering that begins in February and only ends with the arrival of heat. Its small, waxy, star-shaped flowers in a slightly greenish yellow colour, clustered in small clusters, adorn a very ornamental foliage, shiny, wide and fleshy, arranged in a circular manner all around the stems. This unusual variety, resembling euphorbia, brings a little luxuriance to shaded and dry areas of the garden, often neglected by other plants.

The Daphne laureola Philippi belongs to the family of Thymelaeaceae. It is native to southern Europe and North Africa. In nature, this shrub grows on limestone soils, in undergrowth, but also in clearings and on shaded rocky slopes during the hottest hours of the day. Its hardiness exceeds -15°C (5 °F).

In its Philippi form, this shrub will not exceed an average of 60cm (23.6 in), with a spread of 40cm (15.7 in), and its growth is slow. It has an upright habit, supported by quite vertical, sometimes twisting, flexible, quite thick, grey coloured stems. The evergreen foliage is arranged in a rosette, mostly in the upper part of the branches. It consists of entire, oblong leaves, 4 to 6 cm (1.6 to 2.4 in) long and 3 to 4 cm (1.2 to 1.6 in) wide. The lamina, leathery and thick, shows a dark bluish green colour with steel reflections, very shiny on top, lighter underneath.

The flowering takes place from February to May. The flower heads are gathered in small clusters in the axil of the leaves. They consist of small tubular flowers with 4 lobes, an acidic yellow colour tinged with green. Their strong and pleasant scent is reminiscent of honey. They are followed by the formation of oval berries that turn black when ripe.

Whether in the ground or in a container, place the Daphne laureola Philippi near a pathway or close to the house, to enjoy its intoxicating fragrance every time you pass by it from the end of winter. It requires very little maintenance and only needs well-drained soil and exposure to dappled sunlight, or even shade in hot and dry climates, to flourish. You can accompany it with similar-looking euphorbias, botanical peonies (Paeonia mascula), perennials or shrubs that thrive in the same growing conditions such as Abelia 'Confetti', Sarcococca humilis, Nandina domestica or Mexican orange Choysia ternata.

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