What could be better than a shrub that flowers in mid winter and has one of the most heavenly perfumes imaginable?
Well, it is better if the flowers match one’s dress.
Milly insisted I include this little poem;
All about the daphne bush the happy fairies went,
And spread about their silken hair to catch its magic scent.
They chanted little silver tunes, they danced the whole day long,
The rosy bush was ringed around with chains of coloured sound.
Nectar feeding birds love this plant as much as I do. Here is an Eastern Spinebill enjoying a sip;
The best way to tip prune plants is to pick flowers for the house, or for friends.
The bouquet in the bucket is one I took along to put on a grave that was having a marker placed after 100 years. This old-fashioned plant would have been just as popular back in 1918…..and no doubt grown by poor Linda Loosley herself.
DAPHNE DESERVES A SPECIAL VASE
I found this vase up in Blackheath village at a second hand shop for a few dollars. Perfect for the flowers .
A PEEK BEYOND WINTER
If the daphne is flowering, spring is already in the air;
So heart-lifting, even in the rain;
Daphne needs a well drained location in dappled sunshine. Mind you, the best position is on my bedside table. 😍
All rugged up, but my heart is warmed by the harbinger of spring.
By the way, there is a yellow variety too. I really think I must have one
For more growing tips, CLICK HERE
I adore Daphne. I have a Daphne Odora aureomarginata but not having acidic soil, have it growing in a pot. It used to thrive well in Maidenhead, but just about ‘holds its own’ here in Yorkshire. However as it was a cutting from my mother’s garden, I nurture it with love.
I think Blackheath has the ideal climate and soil for them, Marcia. How special to have one from your Mother’s garden.