How to grow Daphne in the UK
Daphne odora
Daphne (Daphne odora) is a flower that grows well in UK gardens. Heavenly winter scent. Don't move it — daphnes sulk and die. All parts highly toxic. This guide covers when and how to sow Daphne, the soil and position it likes, watering and feeding, companion planting, and when to harvest.
When to sow & grow Daphne
Sowing and harvest window through the year (UK):
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct Plant | Nov | Dec |
Soil, position & care
- Soil
- Most well-drained soils with added organic matter
- Soil pH
- 6.0–7.5
- Position
- Sun or part shade depending on species
- Sowing depth
- Plant so the rootball top sits level with the soil
- Spacing
- Allow for mature spread
- Sowing
- Plant from containers spring or autumn; water in well
- Growing
- Water through the first two summers; mulch annually
- Harvest & upkeep
- Prune to shape after flowering; remove dead/crossing wood
- Watch for
- Generally tough; watch aphids and powdery mildew
Companion planting for Daphne
No specific companion notes for this plant.
Add Daphne to your free 12-month plan and get watering & sowing reminders — no sign-up needed.
Daphne FAQs
How much sun does Daphne need?
Daphne prefers partial sun (3–6 hrs).
When should I plant Daphne in the UK?
In the UK, plant Daphne in October. Planting in this window gives the roots time to establish before the plant is asked to grow away.
Is Daphne easy to grow?
Challenging. Heavenly winter scent. Don't move it — daphnes sulk and die. All parts highly toxic.