Daphne White Queen

The Daphne White Queen is a variety of rarely cultivated daphne that will charm with its remarkably fragrant white flowering, from early spring onwards. It is a beautiful bush with a harmonious habit, adorned with beautiful intense green foliage, which remains attractive even when not in bloom. Sensitive to heavy frosts, this daphne appreciates mild and humid climates and will lose its foliage if it gets too cold. It deserves a prominent place near a pathway or entrance, or in a nice pot on the terrace, to enjoy its fragrance with every passing.

The Daphne White Queen is a horticultural hybrid obtained by cross-breeding Daphne acutiloba and D. sureil, both originating from China. Like all daphnes, it belongs to the family of Thymelaeaceae. It grows rather slowly, forming a small bush about 1.10 m (3 ft 7 in) high by 1.30 m (4 ft 4 in) wide, with a dense and harmonious habit, without the stiffness that characterises some other daphnes. It bears more or less evergreen foliage in winter, evergreen in regions where it only freezes very little or in a cold greenhouse. Its elongated lanceolate leaves, with a leathery texture, measure about 5cm (2 in) long. Their colour ranges from light green to quite dark satin green.

Flowering in March-April, this plant produces white, tubular flowers with four pointed lobes arranged in corymbs or small rounded bouquets on the upper part of its stems. These flowers have a sweet fragrance that attracts pollinating insects and are highlighted by the plant's intense green colour. After pollination, the plant forms small, round, light red fruits that are quite decorative. However, it is essential to note that the fruits are highly toxic, and the plant's sap can cause irritation to mucous membranes and skin.

In mild climates, the 'White Queen' bush will bloom abundantly in gently sunny to semi-shady areas of the garden, as long as it benefits from a light and humus-rich soil that remains moist in summer. It tolerates slightly limestone soils quite well. For example, place it in a bed composed of low-growing shrubs with staggered flowering times, such as deutzias or Chinese azaleas. It will also have a great effect on a terrace or in a large rock garden, always in semi-shade, planted with spring bulbs for example (crocuses, daffodils, tulips). Position it in groups of 3 plants not far from the front door of the house or near a passageway, to fully enjoy its charm.

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