Evergreen Shrub – Variegated Winter Daphne

Variegated Winter Daphne 

Botanical name: daphne odora ‘aureomarginata’

Beginner friendly?: yes

Average size at maturity: about 5 ft in height and in spread 

Hardy zone: zones 8-10 

Foliage color: green, yellow, white, blue 

Flower color: pink, white, yellow 

Bloom time: winter, early spring 

Growth rate: grows no more than 6 inches per year 

Pruning instructions: prune in the late winter/early spring before new growth begins to emerge for the spring season  to maintain desired shape and size 

Propagation methods: propagate with cuttings in the fall and winter months 

Landscape use: borders, walkways/patios, specimen plant, shade garden, foundation planting, container plant 

Special features: unique blooms, variegated foliage, heat tolerant, fragrant, drought tolerant

Light needs: 3-5 hours of sun per day 

Watering instructions: allow the top several inches to dry out between watering sessions 

Fertilizing instructions : use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once a year in the early spring before new growth begins to emerge 

Best time to plant: spring 

Best type of soil: loam, clay 

Companion plants: japanese maple, ferns, camellias, hostas, witch hazel 

Toxicity level: highly toxic for humans and pets if ingested 

Invasive species: no